LULWORTH Castle was rocked to the ramparts as the second Camp Bestival was a hailed a mighty success.
Expanding from its debut last year, the three-day festival boasted more revellers, a wider choice of entertainment and a bigger site for 2009.
The family feel was once again in full evidence, with organisers promising 100 free things for children to do.
Alongside the impressive music line-up, there was also an eclectic plethora of pleasures, from barn dances to a show by the English National Ballet.
Organisers were delighted with the way traffic flowed freely into the site on Friday afternoon.
Despite the thousands of cars, few hold-ups were reported as this year's new traffic management plan paid dividends.
Bigger campsites also gave far more room for the big family groups, while the increased facilities in the campsite were also welcome.
A slightly showery start to the weekend soon gave way to blue skies on Friday and Saturday, and Sunday’s overcast conditions did little to dampen enthusiasm.
The stunning location seemed to go down well with the performers, many of whom made reference to the castle and coastal backdrops.
Brit Award winners Florence and the Machine gave a whirlwind Friday night show to a feverish crowd.
They were followed by the epic rock of Mercury Rev and the super-slick Kid Creole and the Coconuts.
Meanwhile, comedian Frankie Boyle refused to tone down his acerbic show for the family festival in the Big Top.
Saturday’s highlights included a riotous rap set from Welsh B-boys Goldie Lookin’ Chain, blissful funk from Crazy P and heartbreaking acoustic slots from Laura Marling, Bon Iver and local girl PJ Harvey.
The Animal Magic fancy dress theme was embraced by those of all ages, with bees, sheep, cows and even Scooby Doo all out in force.
Set to round off the festival last night were hip-hop legend Roots Manuva and a disco double-header from Candi Staton and Chic.
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