Thousands of people joined in the fun in Tenby on Sunday to make the first Tenby Round Table Summer Spectacular of 2002 a bumper success

Although the weather closed in as the day wore on, forcing Tablers to re-jig the running order at times, it did not deter massive crowds from filling Tenby Harbour and every vantage point around the natural amphitheatre of the North bay to enjoy seven entertainment packed hours and raise thousands of pounds for deserving charities.

Table chairman Carl Evans was delighted with the first event's success.

"It was absolutely fantastic," he said. "Although it turned rather misty after a sunny start, there was a tremendous atmosphere throughout the day and it was great to see so many people having so much fun."

The Mayor of Tenby, Clr. Mrs. Christine Brown and Town Crier John Thomas formally open the spectacular at 3 pm before the fun really began with the talented team from main sponsors Kiln Park and their ever popular Bradley Bear show enchanting young and old alike.

The zany circus skills of Jugglestruck kept everyone enthralled, as did a dazzling display by the fleet-footed Celtic Claddaugh Irish Dance Group while local DJ Wacky Wayne Wharton kept the party swinging throughout the afternoon until early evening.

As the day wore on, clouds started rolling in from the sea, resulting in Tablers amending the programme and calling in the twin monoplanes of the Firebird Aerobatics team early than originally billed.

Following their display of aerial stunts, it was the turn of Tenby Coastguard with a dramatic rescue simulation on Harbour Beach.

Attention then returned to the main events stage as Lee Mason, of well known local club band Mustard Mitt, kicked off an evening of live music with a foot-tapping performance before the always spectacular launch of Tenby's Tyne-class lifeboat the RFA Sir Gallahad signalled the arrival of an RAF Sea King helicopter from RAF Chivenor and a gripping air/sea rescue display involving the helicopter, the RFA Sir Gallahad and the inshore lifeboat,.

As the evening shadows fell, it was be music all the way with the ever popular Talisman and their unique mix of covers from the past few decades before the day was brought to a rousing climax by a massive firework display choreographed by Richard and Liz Cameron, from Flameburst FX which still drew awed gasps from the large crowd despite the misty conditions .

As well as the entertainment on the main events stage, there was plenty to see and do for all the family throughout the day with a wide range of side-shows and stalls managed by local charities, bouncy castles, bucking broncos, face painting and balloon modelling, refreshments including a pig roast, burger stalls and licensed bar and much, much more.

"Everyone really got into the party spirit and I think we have raised a substantial amount for charity," said Carl,

"Thanks must go to main sponsors Kiln Park, Texaco, and all the local businesses for their support and to everyone involved in any way.

"Thanks must also go to the harbour Users and the residents living in the harbour area for their patience and understanding over any disturbance caused.

"May I also add my personal thanks to my fellow Tablers, former Tablers and all the many friends and supporters of Tenby Round Table who entered into the spirit of the event and worked so hard throughout the day.

"Also thanks must go to all those who helped in clearing up after the event!

"Most of all, on behalf of Tenby Round Table and the worthy causes our Spectaculars support, I thank everyone who attended the event and gave so generously on the day."

Tablers will now be looking forward to their second Spectacular on August 11.

Format will be on similar lines to the first and, although there will be no planes or helicopter, there will be the added spectacle of the Wales Air Ambulance Charity Bungee Jump, with hardy souls leaping from a crane 180 foot above the harbour to raise cash for good causes throughout the day until early evening.

The August 11 event will also see the tidal conditions right for the return of the ever popular speedboat rides while live music will come from The Rainkings and Mustard Mitt!

"Although it will be hard to top the first event, we are hoping to do even better next Sunday," remarked Carl. "We have over 50 people lined up for the bungee jump which should be quite a sight throughout the day, while we again have loads of brilliant live entertainment and two cracking bands to lead us up to the fireworks.

"So why not head down to the harbour once again and join in the fun."