Fans flock to Shrewsbury Folk Festival

Fans from around the UK travelled to Shrewsbury for the annual shindig while thousands more from around the world tuned in to a live internet broadcast.

This year's event featured an exciting line-up of the best in British roots music with plenty of performers from the USA and Europe added into the mix.

Festival spokeswoman Jo Cunningham said: "The festival got off to an amazing start last night. The marquees were full of great acts and the atmosphere was electric.

"We're all looking forward to a great weekend of exceptional music, dance, food and entertainment."

Fans who have not yet bought tickets can seek a small number of day passes or watch for free online.

Last night's show got under way with a series of blistering sets from star performers.

Among the stand-out performances was a set from Italian stars Nidi D'Arac, who mixed folk with rave to create a unique sound. Fans danced in the aisles to their eclectic songs, which have previously thrilled audiences as far afield as Brazil, Africa, New York and Europe.

The highlight, however, was a set from British folk legend Steve Knightley, who played a late-night set on the main stage and dazzled fans. Knightley is a long-standing friend and patron of the festival and has previously described it as being the best event in the UK.

He is best known for his work with his band Show of Hands, who have headlined the Royal Albert Hall on several occasions.

Last night, Knightley performed stripped down acoustic songs with a social conscience. He joked about the absence of his long-time Show of Hands partner Phil Beer and said: "Who needs a multi-instrumentalist, eh?"

Knightley played with grace and panache and earned a rousing reception from a packed main marquee. He will return to the stage on Monday, to play alongside John Jones.