GALLERY: View your hail photos here

Yesterday afternoon saw residents running for cover, as a deluge of hailstones pummeled down on Newcastle.

The downpour engulfed the central business district, and showered the thirsty land.

Many expressed hope that the preliminary shower would be the first of many to bring relief to farmers, residents and the dry land.

We asked residents to submit photos of the hail. See the gallery below for a collection of the best photos.