A SERIES of events and activities held to mark the fifth anniversary of St Asaph being granted city status were hailed “excellent without exception”.

Cllr Colin Hardie, mayor of St Asaph, delivered his upbeat verdict after the celebrations.

A hog roast was held, as well as treasure hunt and fireworks. There was a also sports day and junior football tournament on

Roe Plas Meadow; there was cricket – St Asaph 2nd XI v Caernarfon; and an array of activities were held at the parish church, including an exhibition of past weddings, christenings and a display of scarecrows. The festival concluded with a service at St Asaph Cathedral.

A four-day flower festival also ran at the cathedral. Thisl took the theme of ‘The Stories of Jesus’. Flower clubs and individuals from across the diocese created displays, showcasing both parables and miracles.

Cllr Hardie said: “The whole weekend was a great success. It was excellent without exception.

”The flower festival in particular attracted a number of visitors, including international visitors. The fireworks were also enjoyed.

“People were invited to make scarecrows about two weeks before our celebrations, for the city’s annual competition.

“They were asked to bring them to the celebrations and display them in the churchyard. This year’s theme was connected with nursery rhymes.

“There were so many activities going on. Five-year anniversary celebrations are associated with wood, so children made bird houses and boxes. They learned a lot. They also joined in face-painting and took part in flower arranging.”