That’s right, at the ripe old age of 18, I was still a festival virgin. But what better way to start than the V festival in Hylands Park, Chelmsford. I spent the day checking out the bands and experiencing that festival vibe. I hadn't anticipated quite the volume of people that would be there. There were people literally everywhere, and where there weren't people, there were tents. Loads of people had sensibly worn their wellies, although some of the more brave (or stupid) went in bikinis. This pleads for me to mention the weather. It rained like I have never seen and so suddenly my jeans were transformed into a sopping ten ton weight. However, the sun did come out which brightened the day. The ground was still left muddy so I am currently caked up to my knees in it. I also have half a head of hair dripping wet after another festival goer slipped on the mud and his pint ended up on my head. But it wasn't all bad. The first band that I officially saw at the festival was Biffy Clyro, who absolutely rocked. Unfortunately Biffy took to his guitar twice and both times, not two chords into the song there was an electrical failure. However, it was third time lucky and the crowd went crazy. I also caught some of Orson, who were awesome, amongst others. Walking round chatting to people, I began to see the good side of festivals. Everyone was really friendly. It was as though the music was bringing people together (sob, sob, how emotional). On a serious note, everyone I spoke to was there just to chill out and enjoy some really top quality music. So despite the mud, rain, beer and getting lost on the way home, I actually had a really good day. All in all, not a bad first festival experience. I'm starting to understand what the attraction is, although I must confess, I think I will prepare myself a little better before I pitch my tent for the weekend! | 
