SATURDAY, August 4, was the date of the 12th annual Blackwood Carnival which was once again well supported by the many thousands of people who lined Blackwood High Street and attended an afternoon of fun and entertainment at the Civic Centre, Pontllanfraith.

This year’s carnival parade was led by the carnival queen, 14-year-old Natalie Rees and mini queen, Kayla Hicks.

These were followed by princesses Hannah Wilkins, Lowri Williams and court ladies Lauren Shankland, Olivia Turley, Daisy Wilkins, Lily Jones and Megan Shakland.

They were accompanied by flower girls Genevieve Hungerford and Ryley Partridge. Their dresses and accessories again this year were sponsored by Lillys & Lace of Aberbargoed.

Vintage cars, buses and scooters followed, accompanied by music from marching bands including the Cascade Royals, The Solitaires of Aberbargoed, Severnside from Caldicot and Cefn Fforest Marching Band.

This event appears to have become a major attraction for Blackwood and is enjoyed and appreciated throughout the community.

Therefore may I take this opportunity, through your letters page, to personally thank all the members of the Blackwood Town Council events committee who have worked tirelessly over the past year to ensure that the carnival this year was the best one to date.

Councillor Andrew Farina-Childs, Blackwood Town Council