The weather failed to dampen proceedings as thousands of fans flocked to Radio One's Big Weekend at Herrington Country Park, near Sunderland.

Revellers were greeted by a mixture of hail and snow, along with bright sunshine on the first day of the event on Saturday.

Aussie pop star Natalie Imbruglia inquired of the crowd: "Did you get caught in the hail?" before her soulful set.

Loudmouth Radio One DJ Chris Moyles also told fans: "You are in the best seats in the house - it's chucking it down outside."

He then raised huge cheers from Sunderland fans present as he announced Newcastle had lost their game with Everton.

Earlier, boyband Rooster had welcomed the "beautiful people" of Sunderland, while rockers Kasabian gave a blistering performance rounded off by the storming Club Foot.

Dave Grohl, of US act the Foo Fighters, revealed that he had ignored doctor's orders to rest his voice as he took to the stage, much to the delight of fans.

The Chemical Brothers rounded things off in the main tent combining tracks such as Hey Boy, Hey Girl and Push The Button with awesome visuals displayed on two large screens on either side of the main stage.

Meanwhile, the dance tent vibrated to the sounds of among others DJ Pete Tong and Judge Jules.