THOUSANDS of people turned up to a Valleys town for a day of history, heritage and culture.

Blaenavon's yearly World Heritage Day was held on Saturday, celebrating 18 years of its World Heritage status in recognition of the role it played during the industrial revolution.

There were lots of things to do and see on the day, including rock climbing, musical performances, dancing and a variety of food and craft stalls.

However, the highlight of the day was the event’s yearly parade, which saw hundreds of children, parents, local groups and organisations dress up and march down and back up Broad Street.

Kate Fitzgerald, who helps to organise the event along with the Blaenavon Heritage Committee said: “This year did do better than last year. I’d saw we had around 5,000 people turn up altogether.

“The day went really well and it was lovely to see the town so busy. I think the beautiful weather made the day too.

“I would like to thank the schools who took part in the parade and day and also the committee for organising the World Heritage Day.”

The theme of the parade for 2018 was Blaenavon’s social history which saw local school children dress up in costumes showcasing the history of local women as well as dance performances and puppetry.

Group Malarky Arts also spent time working with the children to create costumes on themes such as Blaenavon’s influential women, its sporting achievements and religion.

As well as the parade, the music for the event was headlined by X Factor and Only Boys Aloud star Russel Jones who was a hit with viewers on the show last year.

Nick and Wendy Horler, who run the shop Artie and Craftie on Commercial Street in the town said they thought this year’s heritage day was the biggest in a long time.

Mrs Horler said: “There’s been a lot of involvement this year and it has been really good.”

Mr Horler added: “This is a build-up of 12 months hard work from the heritage committee who put this event on and its really nice to see so many people come out.”