RAIN failed to stop play at the annual Brynmawr Carnival with residents turning out despite Saturday's downpours.

But despite the show of community spirit, organisers said the event would be lucky to make a profit this year.

The Brynmawr millennium carnival committee arranges the day and this year proceeds are to be used towards a garden around the fountain in the town's Welfare Park.

But chairman Terry Hughes said: "It was a terrible shame about the weather. It means we will be lucky to break even."

Crowds lined the streets to see the parade begin in Alma Street before it snaked its way around the town to the Welfare Park.

It was led by the ATC band from Blaina and joined by the Rhymney Coronets.

Five floats took part along with many residents who donned fancy dress with several spidermen and Star Wars' characters.

There was also a Del Boy look-alike from Ebbw Vale driving a yellow Robin Reliant.

The winners were the Sharonettes with their teddy bear float. Runners-up were Greenland Road's batman float and third were the Brynmawr Partnership with a 60s-inspired theme.

In the park, there was more entertainment with falconry displays, a dog display, music, bouncy castles, go karts, stalls and refreshments.

The carnival was officially opened by the carnival queen, 15-year-old Emma Tutty, who lives in Brynmawr, aided by her court lady Amber Watson, 13, also from Brynmawr.

The town's mayor, Keith Jenkins, welcomed everyone to the event, urging them to enjoy themselves despite the weather.