BLISSFIELDS festival lived up to its theme as it was a truly out of this world experience.

Stormtroopers and aliens were joined by robots and even Captain Kirk as crowds of thousands fully embraced the spirit, having tremendous fun in the process.

Although one of the smaller festivals on the circuit, Blissfields provided no less entertainment, with some stunning performances from fantastic bands.

Former Massive Attack member Tricky shared headlining duty with local favourite Frank Turner, each capping off a great night of music in their own style.

Turner particularly pleased the crowd with new song Wessex Boy, referencing various old haunts in his home city, but he found time to thrill the crowd with big tunes like Photosynthesis and The Road.

Winchester band I Am Arrows joined Turner in coming home for the festival, something that delighted frontman Andy Burrows.

The former Razorlight drummer had been touring Europe with new band We Are Scientists but was happy to take a short break to play to a home crowd, including most of his family.

Andy said: “I used to dream about doing something like this because it freaked me out when I was away all the time with Razorlight.

“I’m very happy to be playing a festival right near home.

We haven’t done much as a band this year and this means a lot to all of us.”

I Am Arrows got the perfect welcome from the crowd and repaid their faith with an engaging set.

Other highlights of the festival included rockers The Jim Jones Revue echoing the spirit of Jerry Lee Lewis, Southampton’s Delays and fan favourite King Charles.

The festival moved to a new home this year at Woodmancott, near Micheldever, after outgrowing its former site at Bradley Farm, near Alresford.

Organiser Paul Bliss, who runs the festival with wife Mel, said there was some anxiety over the move.

He said: “We were worried the move might change the feel of the festival.

“There were a lot of people who were worried when we decided to move and they did not know if it would work but here we are and they have changed their minds.”

Mr Bliss had no need to worry as Blissfields turned out another fantastic few days of live music, crazy costumes and above all, fun.

Pictures by Mark Holloway.

Blissfields festival