AN ANNUAL Easter bonnet contest and parade in Barry saw young and old put on a stunning display.

The event on Saturday, April 15, saw residents and visitors descend on High Street to watch the parade, with prizes awarded for best girl’s hat, best boy’s hat and the funkiest design.

The event organised by Cafe No 5 featured an appearance by Gemma the giraffe from Giggles toy shop, while Vale MP Alun Cairns and AM Jane Hutt judged entries.

Owner of Doctor Bob's Balloons Bob Armstrong entertained the crowd during the event and said he was delighted by how well it had gone.

"We had young and old and really fantastic weather," he said.

"We’d like to thank Café No.5 who hosted the event and all those who turned up.

"The atmosphere was great. The children must have spent hours on their creations and some of the parents had also put in a lot of effort which was really cool.

"The procession went the entire length of the street and was great fun. It's given all the traders a boost and lifted our spirits. We also had Gemma the giraffe from Giggles who is becoming quite an icon."

Mr Armstrong said events like this really encouraged people to shop locally and experience true community spirit.

"Events like this are really special for High Street as we really want to thank the community.

"We’d like to put on more events like this and get more funding, especially in the summer."

Shoppers can now buy raffle tickets from shops in the High Street Shopping Quarter, with a monthly top prize of a £50 shopping voucher.

Mr Armstrong said all profits from the raffle would go towards funding future events.

"We are non-profit making when it comes to events," he said.

"We’re aiming to foster community spirit and thank residents and customers for their support."