ROCK fans from all over Europe descended on Blaenau Gwent at the weekend as the Steelhouse Festival returned for its fourth- successive year.

Bringing the best of classic rock to the heart of the valleys, the two-day festival saw thousands turn up to see the likes of The Answer, Electric Boys and The Graveltones take to the stage.

The Welsh international rock festival which took place at Hafod-y-Dafal Farm, near Ebbw Vale, saw more than six thousand fans turn up ready to rock over the weekend.

Predictions of stormy weather didn’t deter fans who flocked to the festival, some making 800 mile-round trips from places as far as Scotland to see their favourite bands headline.

But fans were in luck as the rain held off and they were able to enjoy headliners including Black Star Riders, who appeared at the festival fresh from their hugely successful tour in late 2013.

The band features Thin Lizzy members Ricky Warwick, Damon Johnson, Scott Gorham and Marco Mendoza, together with drummer Jimmy DeGrasso (Alice Cooper / Megadeth) who performed at the festival as part of their run of shows throughout July.

Festival co-founder Matt Rhead said the festival had been another success.

“It was magnificent,” he said.

“We have beat last year’s total in terms of the amount of fans turning out to the weekend.

“There was a packed house for Black Star Riders who were superb and it stayed warm and sunny.

“All of the artists commented on the location saying that it was an amazing place.

“The amount of local people that turned up has also increased year on year.

“The event attracts people from all over the UK, with people of all ages taking part- there is a real family element.

“The event is largely run by volunteers who give up their time for their love of rock music.”

For more information visit: steelhousefestival.co.uk