A CARDIGAN town councillor says a £2,500 grant towards costs generated by the town’s Giant Lantern Parade should have gone to Cardigan Foodbank instead.

Cllr John Adams-Lewis told colleagues that the town council’s contribution towards last month’s event which included a fireworks display would have been better used buying essential foodstuffs for those in need.

“Surely a foodbank is more deserving than a 15-minute fireworks display?” he asked.

“The town foodbank is desperate for cash, yet we allowed all that money to quite literally go up in smoke in a quarter of an hour.”

However, Cllr Adams-Lewis found himself in a minority of one when other members argued the grant was a crucial contribution to what had been an extremely successful town event.

“I’m sorry John, but I disagree,” Cllr Philippa Noble told him. “That parade brought so many people into town and did wonders for the community.

“I think we should be celebrating this unique event.”

And Cllr Richard Jones commented: “The majority of people who attended didn’t seem to think it was a waste of money – Cardigan’s Giant Lantern Parade has been a fantastic advert for the town.”

Cllr Elaine Evans agreed. “It was a brilliant way to finish the whole evening,” she said.

Councillors has earlier been told that the event drew just two complaints, while attracting a crowd of around 20,000.

Town clerk Eleri Maskell told members both complaints related to the 15-minute fireworks display held on the other side of the River Teifi after the lighted procession had reached Cardigan Castle.

One complaint concerned a traumatised pet dog – the other was about the alleged mess left following the display.

“We should go and see these people before next year’s event and tell them what will be happening and when,” she suggested.

It was agreed to send a letter of congratulation to event organisers Small World Theatre.