THIS could be the last year for Blackwood carnival in its current form and it "went out with a wow".

Thousands of people lined the streets of Blackwood and Pontllanfraith to watch the parade go by on Saturday, before enjoying the stalls and funfair put on at the civic centre.

Around 100 bikers dressed in black leathers opened the carnival, and after a short break a marching band headed the parade, leading groups of cheerleading children, Scouts and Disney characters.

Next year the Pontllanfraith civic centre complex is expected to have been sold off, so the carnival and fun day - by then in its 61st year - will have to find another venue.

Characters from Alice in Wonderland were a highlight, with all their costumes made and donated by Twinkle Twinkle boutique.

People of all ages came out to watch, from babies to grandparents.

Despite a few umbrellas unfurling at one point, the rain held off and there were even some opportunities for a suntan.

Other entries in the parade included police, the ambulance service and classic cars.

Melanie Andrew, from Newport, took her two sons aged four and seven to watch the parade because it is "old fashioned entertainment - good for families."

Town councillor Granville Hale said: "The parade was absolutely first class, one of the best we have had."

He added he had timed it from start to finish, and it lasted 47 minutes with some toddlers walking the whole way.

"The number of entries exceeded expectations and people were cheering and clapping along the way," he said.

Fellow councillor Glyn Erasmus said: "It was fantastic and I really enjoyed myself walking with the Alice and Friends tableau, swinging my brolly."

Council events chairwoman Zoe Hammond said: "This year could be the last year in its current form - and we've gone out with a wow. Watch this space for next year.

"The day was been absolutely amazing with a wonderful group of children in the parade."