CARNIVAL Day proved a big success as the Esplanade welcomed large crowds to the annual event.

The weather was set fair but the strong winds meant that, unfortunately, the RAF Falcons parachute team were unable to jump.

However, there were six other air displays to keep the crowd entertained including civilian aircraft.

The MV Balmoral also made an appearance as it sailed out of Penarth as part of its busy summer programme.

The Vulcan bomber was then spotted approaching from the distance and, as it flew overhead, its famous imposing engine noise wowed all in attendance.

As it came into view, the band was asked to pause as everyone appreciated the sonic boom of the impressive and almost triangular aircraft.

A round of applause went up as the Vulcan left Penarth for the last time. A truly awe inspiring moment.

The aircraft display and Battle of Britain memorial flight also encapsulated crowds later on in the day.

More than 70 classic cars led the parade and came down onto the Esplanade before they went on display at the Clifftop.

The 50th anniversary carnival parade contest was won by Michele Sweeney and her ‘60’s Garden By The Sea comrades.’

Other winners included Jack Bailey, Rose Bailey and Megan Coleman in the Under 12s, St John’s Ambulance in the Over 12s, Cogan Nursery and Penarth Library in the group entry and Cogan Coronation Club ‘Hippy Bunch’ in the Pub and Club category.

The deckchair dandies entertained the crowd in front of the pier pavilion with their charming humour and a brass band played some catchy songs.

Victoria Daycare Nursery took first prize in the inaugural Town Mayor’s Wheelbarrow Competition which invited local schools to plant a wheelbarrow with the theme ‘Garden by the Sea’.

The runner-up was Cogan Primary School. They each won garden centre vouchers to make their school more beautiful.