THE sun finally came out on the first main day of Camp Bestival yesterday after a wild and windy start - as families got in the dancing mood.

But there was disappointment as one of Friday night's big acts, Sophie Ellis-Bextor was forced to cancel her performance after her two children contracted coronavirus.

The Murder on the Dancefloor singer had been due to perform on the Castle Stage at the family-friendly event at Lulworth Castle - following the last-minute cancellation, Abba tribute Björn Again stepped up to save the day.

Announcing the news just hours before the show, a spokesman for Camp Bestival said: "Sadly both of Sophie Ellis Bextor's children have come down with Covid so she's at home with them. She sends all her love."

Fans took to Twitter to show their support for the star and her family.

It followed a challenging start for the event, as Storm Evert's gale force winds lashed through the site overnight on Thursday and into yesterday afternoon.

Festival attendee Allan Jones said: “People started arriving at the festival on Thursday, it was really windy, and some tents got blown away. They delayed the opening but when the gates opened, the sun came out and it was glorious.”

“There are thousands of people here, it’s always been a family festival, but there are lots of families here."

Not everyone was able to battle through the storm, however.

Patricia Risbridger said: "Gutted (about) our tent at Camp Bestival accessible camping have had to take our little wheelchair user home - her first ever festival - heartbroken."

Keiron Quin said: "I remember the night and the morning well. Sadly the tent took an unmendable hit and we had to bail. Hoping people have more luck than we did and are continuing to enjoy the festival."

Other big name acts due to play yesterday included Becky Hill, The Selecter, David Rodigan, Musical Youth and TV favourites Sam and Mark.

Among the big-hitters on today's roster are Fatboy Slim, Blossoms, Level 42 and DJ Sarah Cox. Meanwhile, fellow DJ Jo Whiley will be bringing some nostalgia to the mix with a little help from her 90s anthems. For the youngsters, there’s Dick and Dom and Mr Tumble.

On Sunday, Groove Armada top the bill with a special fireworks finale set to light up the skies.