THOUSANDS of people enjoyed the first part of the Castell Roc festival.

Around 2,500 people were at the festival at Chepstow Castle, between Thursday and Sunday, to enjoy acts including the headlining group The South (We’re Still Beautiful) as well as the likes of The Rat Pack, Abba Mania and Hi-On Maiden.

The South was formed by members of the Beautiful South group which split up in 2006. Members of the band came out of retirement to form the new group.

Other acts performing at the festival included The Belgians and duo Rob and John.

A further 2,500 people are now expected for the second part of the festival, which runs from today to Saturday.

Acts due to perform include The Bohemians, The Wurzels and Rhydian.

Festival organister Carol Mutlow said: “It has been a brilliant weekend, the weather has been kind to us.

“There were a few showers on the first night when The South performed, but it didn’t dampen the spirit. The crowd loved it .”

The Castell Roc festival is now in its third year. Arts, crafts and treatment stalls at the festival are raising funds for the festival’s charity for 2014, Children In Need.

For details on the festival and performance times visit: castellroc.co.uk

Tickets for performances are available at the website or at Hannah’s Music on Moor Street, Chepstow.