Meridian Isle of Wight Festival

Thousands of people are heading to the Isle of Wight for the first of this season's music festivals.

Rain and heavy wind caused some problems for those trying to put up their tents.

But as Andrew Pate found out, the lure of big stars like Rod Stewart meant everyone was in high spirits.

Andrew spoke to the festival organiser, John Giddings.

The first of tens of thousands of music fans have been crossing the Solent for the famous Isle of Wight Music Festival. The line up this year includes Rod Stewart, Rag 'n' Bone man and Bastille. We spoke to some festival-goers as they travelled to the site in Newport.

In the wake of recent terror attacks police have stepped up security at the site. People are being advised to remain alert, but not alarmed.

The Isle of Wight Festival well and truly kicks off today - with thousands heading to Seaclose Park to see headliners Stereophonics and Faithless. Festival-goers are being advised to plan their journeys as some roads closures will be in place.

Early birds and eager campers will be heading to the Isle of Wight Music Festival from today.

The campsite gates open at midday.

People are being warned to plan their journeys as there could be queues and delays on the way to the venue for the weekend of performances.

The Isle of Wight is well-known for its festivals, but now it's been officially recognised at a national awards ceremony.

Bestival has been named as best major festival at this year's UK Festival awards.

The Isle of Wight Festival has picked up Best Headliner and Best Family Festival accolades.

The first headline act of next June's Isle of Wight Festival has been announced.

Queen with Adam Lambert will take to the stage at Seaclose Park on the Sunday night.

The glorious weather we've been experiencing turned to rain in many places today so it can only mean one thing - the festival season has begun!

Yes thousands of people on the Isle of Wight swapped their flip-flops for wellies in preparation to see headlines acts such as Blur, Fleetwood Mac, Billy Idol and The Prodigy.

Divya Kohli has been among the festival goers and met one visitor of a very different kind...

John Giddings, promoter of the Isle of Wight Festival, appeared at a wedding reception to present two VIP tickets for this weekend’s event to James and Fiona Jeremiah.

The couple met at the 2009 festival and were married at Ventnor Botanic Garden.

We've just let the pictures and interviews tell the story!