DON'T worry, no one ever died from mud," exclaimed a passing girl as I entered Bestival on Friday.
This kind of optimism and joviality was essential in what was a washout festival, although having said that a pair of wellies and a good Mackintosh were also useful.
Nevertheless, despite the unremitting downpours, the howling winds and endless mud, this year's Bestival was brilliant thanks to some great sets and comical attire worn by the revellers. The fancy-dress theme this year was 30,000 Freaks Under the Sea and, as always, people went to great lengths and put in a lot of effort.
However, it was the music everyone had rocked up for and there were no disappointments here. Friday night saw a storming set from Dunkirk Spirit, ironic that they were on the bill considering those who endured the elements to watch them needed plenty of Dunkirk spirit themselves.
After these guys it was the turn of My Bloody Valentine who had the crowd divided. These '80s Irish rockers played a somewhat experimental set, which seemed to consist of endless guitar solos and plenty of beefy riffery. It was a Marmite performance - you either loved it or hated it.
Away from the main stage, numerous tents were hosting a variety of popular world music, including a set by DJ Derek - a 60-year-old from Bristol with a penchant for dub.
Saturday's highlights were the Cuban Brothers, who brought their crazy Caribbean set to the island. Were it not for the foul weather you could almost believe you were on a very different island in Latin America - almost.
As per usual, Amy Winehouse turned up to do her set looking like a drunken bride-to-be on a hen night. Her set was a lacklustre affair, unlike Hot Chip's. Their electropop tunes were faultless and hugely popular with the crowd, although they didn't steal the show away from the fabulous Cuban Brothers.
Another great festival, guys. Can we have some sun next year?
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