First ever Blackwood Spring Fair brings more than 8,000 visitors to town

More than 8,000 people descended on Blackwood as the town held its first spring fair on Saturday March 4.

A wide variety of food and craft stalls, a funfair, street activities and performances not only kept everyone entertained but attracted 3,000 more visitors to the town centre than the previous Saturday.

The Yellow and green tents of Crafty Legs were at the event, while other businesses also benefited. 

Huw Edwards and Emma Zac-Price, of Tidal’s Stores Ltd, said: “The Spring Fair was great. The Yellow and green stalls were smart and eye-catching. 

“There was great community spirit and we felt really involved. It is a good way to boost Blackwood’s profile – roll on the summer event.”

Cllr Jamie Pritchard, cabinet member for Prosperity, Regeneration and Climate Change, said: “Blackwood was bouncing and full of activity. The events programme drives footfall in our towns, and this is a key priority – getting people back to the towns to support local businesses.”

The event was funded by the UK Shared Prosperity funding and organised by Caerphilly County Borough Council. 

It is the first in a series of spring events, with the Ystrad Mynach Spring Fair on March 25 and the Caerphilly Food and Drink Festival on April 29 – as well as a new May Fair in Bargoed on May 13.

Bargoed Town Council has put £15,000 into the event, which it said was being launched “in response to residents’ feedback”.

Much like the Blackwood event there will be entertainment, children’s rides, family activities and various stalls.

Bargoed Town councillor Peter Collins told Caerphilly Observer this was something to look forward to. 

“There’ll be something for everyone,” said Cllr Collins, “we’re bringing trade and custom to Bargoed.”