Thousands turn out for Mardi Gras

THIS year’s Mardi Gras festival has been hailed as the most successful yet.
Colourful and outrageous costumes filled Bute Park in Cardiff as the festivities got under way.
Organisers said the ninth annual gay pride event attracted 40,000 people. People went along to see the live music, enjoy fairground rides and get into the party mood.
Former Steps star Lee Latchwood-Evans entertained the crowds, along with Stuart Cable.
Torchwood star John Barrowman even made an appearance on the main stage.
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Co-chairwoman of the event Sue Thomas said: “There were so many people enjoying themselves. This has definitely been the our best year yet.”
Revellers certainly agreed.
Hannah Mackinnon and Rachelle Evans had come along dressed up and ready to get into the party spirit.
“There is such a great atmosphere,” said Hannah, 18, who was dressed in fairy wings and a corset.
Rachelle, 23, from Ely, Cardiff, added: “I always have an amazing time here. Everyone can just be themselves.”
Niamh O’Beirne, Bethan Jones and Jemma Flynn, all 16, were dressed in matching pink T-shirts specially made for the festival.
Niamh, from Pentyrch, said: “We’re having a great day. We’ve never been before and wanted to see what it was like.”
Barbara Broughton, 17, from Penarth, said: “This is the third year I’ve been. The live music here is really good. It’s a great way to meet new people. I’ll definitely be dancing later.”
Luke Dixon, 23, a trainee solicitor from Cathays, Cardiff, said: “It’s really nice to see families here and people of all ages. It’s nice to have a day where everyone feels confident and it’s a brilliant excuse to party.”
Meanwhile, in Barry visitors were enjoying the Tall Ships Festival at Barry Waterfront, at the weekend.
Thousands of people flocked to the event, which featured the Prince William, the Tall Ship Tenacious and the 91-year-old Baltic trader, Ruth.