TORRENTIAL rain over the weekend did not deter thousands of music fans from flocking to this year's Steelhouse Festival.

The music festival is being held in the heart of Blaenau Gwent - at Hafod-y-Dafal Farm.

Last year saw 11,000 people attend the two-day event and this year a similiar number is expected.

Headlining this year is the award-winning Skindred, which is popular for its mixed rock, reggae and heavy metal music.

Other bands performing today include Last in Line, Monster Truck, Inglorious.

Lisa Barnsley, marketing consultant for Steelhouse Festival, said: "THere's now blue sky and people's spirits have not been dampened which is excellent.

"So far we've had 5,000 people from all over the UK. 

"We have a big list today and tomorrow.

"We started on Friday and we'll have in total over 15,000 people come."

She added: "Ultimately we want people to have a great time. Judging by what I've seen they are."

Music fan Eddie Ashford, who's at the festival, said: "This is the place to be if you're a rock lover.

"My mates and I love it. We're here just to have a great time."

Joe Summer, who is at the event with his wife, said: "Yes, the weather is disappointing but so what.

"I've come here from Bristol and nothing was going to make us turn round.

"I couldn't get over the cars queuing up the side of the mountain to get here. That's amazing."

The 32-year-old added: "We're looking forward to having a pint and listening to the acts."

Mr Summer's wife, Jackie, said: "We came last time and had a fantastic time and thought we'd come again.

"I think the location is a good idea. It's tucked away but the scenery is amazing."

The bands playing on Sunday are Rival Sons, British Lion and King King among others.