MORE than 4,000 people gathered to enjoy the fun at Aberfest ’09.
Free runners performed stunts, amazing onlookers and inspiring new members to get involved. Abertillery Aikido Club Bushinkai gave a sterling demonstration of martial arts.
The festival saw the return of the Great Outdoor Event where more than 800 people enjoyed kayaking, climbing and other activities.
This year saw the first Beer Festival hosted by the Lions.
Communities First brought the health road show to Abertillery Institute with a bang with opportunities to try tai chi, reflexology, aromatherapy, gentle exercise classes, latest dance moves, arts and crafts.
Age Concern and other agencies helped to support and to round the sessions off healthy cookery with tasty jacket potatoes and fillings.
Both Male and Female Orpheus choirs performed during the week which wowed audiences celebrating local talent and the flower festival display at St Paul's Church.
The Dolls House was the venue for local youth rock bands who certainly rocked the joint as Communities First hosted a Battle of the Bands, with Conquer the Decade taking the title.
Thursday saw the grand final of the Stars in your Eyes contest. Four local schools had held heats to determine three finalists from each school. Many stars were imitated on the night with Miley Cyrus aka Epiphany Adamou been crowned the outright winner.
Other events held on that day were Communities First Health Road show, St Paul’s Bingo, Badminton taster sessions facilitated by Blaenau Gwent Leisure Services and the Community Council Sports Awards evening.
Children also took part in the annual community sports day. They received trophies for their efforts whilst adults had a few aches and pains but certainly many more laughter lines.
The evening brought a touch of nostalgia with the ABBA tribute.
On the final day visitors enjoyed the vintage and classic vehicle display.
The other end of town was transported back to the good old days with the Abertillery and District museum hosting the old fashioned street party. Football fans were in force at the Bridgend field with local and invited teams competing to be the best football team in Aberfest.
A spokeswoman for the event said: “Aberfest 2009 was a great success due to the hard work of so many people which would be too many to mention individually, but a big thank you to everyone involved and we look forward to next years celebrations.”
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