Ponty's Big Weekend 2012 has proved, once again, that Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is pulling out all the stops to cement the County Borough as a visitor destination.

The weekend was a sell-out, with 30,000 people from across the UK securing tickets for world-class acts.

While the event began with a shock when Friday night headline Jessie J was forced to cancel her apperance due to a sudden illness, pop sensations Olly Murs, Cover Drive and Diana Vickers more than made up for the disappointment with their outstanding performances on the Saturday night.

Those who had tickets for the cancelled Friday night event are urged to make contact with the place where they bought them from - be that Ticketmaster or a Council venue - to arrange a refund.

Operatic sensation Alfie Boe thrilled the crowds at the free, family Sunday-afternoon concert, headlining a concert that also included The Siren Sisters, Rebecca James, Julia Coles, Amore and Laura White.

Local talent who secured awards at the Council's Enviro Vision Song Quest and Sonig Youth Arts programme were also given the chance to share the prestigious biolSunday was the chance for a more relaxed, family atmosphere, with free tickets for an afternoon in the beautiful Ynysangharad War Memorial Park with Alfie Boe, as well as the winners of the Council's Sonig Youth Arts competition also enjoying the once-in-a-lifetime chance to share a line-up with household names.

Cllr Maureen Webber, Cabinet Member for Council Business and Public Relations, said: “As the last of the tens of thousands of people who have flocked to Pontypridd for this world-class event, with some of the most popular musical talent around at the moment, we must once again highlight the success of Ponty’s Big Weekend.

“Holding our own against more established UK music events, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and its partners at Orchard Entertainment are once again proving Ponty’s Big Weekend means business, attracting international names including, Olly Murs and Alfie Boe.

“As well as putting on a fantastic show for people to enjoy, this weekend has also allowed us to raise the profile of the County Borough, showcasing all that we have to offer to tens of thousands of people from across the UK, securing our position as a visitor destination.

“We are also pleased to have been able to attract investment and deliver a welcome boost for our local economy from this event.  We look  forward to beginning plans for Ponty’s Big Weekend 2013. "

Ponty's Big Weekend is delivered by the Council in partnership with Orchard Entertainment, Wales' largest independent music promoter.

Director Pablo Janczur said: "It’s fantastic to see sell-out crowds of 10,000 each day in this great setting, and finally with some great summer weather. We work in very close partnership with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and it’s great credit to them for delivering three of the most popular acts in the country to an appreciative Valleys audience for a modest ticket price.”

Enjoy the Ponty's Big Weekend picture special.|

More pictures are being added by the day so please visit back. Or send us your pictures!|