REPORT FROM THE SOUTH WALES ARGUS:

ABOUT 8,000 people thronged Caerleon on Sunday to watch the annual Roman chariot race. And blazing the way was hunting horse Tarian, ridden by Ken Blythe.

First of the chariots to negotiate the daunting mile-long course, hampered by water-throwing girls called Asps, were last year's champions, Hanberious Armus. And second chariot back at the starting post, The Common, were Laticus Entrious.

Fireworks and the strains of "Chariots of Fire" sped the competitors on their way. There was one almost immediate casualty - a wheel flew off the Superius Stemerius chariot. Last of the ten entries was the all girl team from The Chariots restaurant.

Entertainment, which began shortly after lunch, continued into the night to the sounds of pop group Panache.

There was a display of Morris Minor cars provided by the Owners' Club, and dancing by two schools. American cars and Kung Fu were just some of the attractions in the nearby sports field.

It was the most ambitious event organised for the fourth successive year by the Monday Club for local charities.

PHOTOS:

Argus photo: 'Toga-clad beauties'
Ken Blythe on hunting horse Tarian
Superius Stemerius in the pre-race parade
An entry fron 'Down Under'
The start
In the thick of it
This is no place for Learners
Team sponsored by RCP Eng Ltd & Pontypool Eng Ltd

Do you have any photos of the 1990 race?