HEAVY RAIN has caused last-minute changes at a popular Hampshire music festival this evening.

The Wickham Festival has been lashed with heavy rain.

Musicians and performers are now unable to use the main stage for the opening night of the festival.

The four-day event takes place every August on land off Blind Lane in Wickham.

This year's lineup includes star names including Van Morrison and the Waterboys.

However, despite the disruption, organisers have assured that the show will go on.

A post on a Wickham Festival social media page said: "Sorry for the delay caused by the weather. We aim to open the gates soon. Sadly the rain means we can't use the main stage tonight but the show will go on.

"We will be moving artists to the Big Top and Quay West stages, so at least you will be undercover, new timetable to follow."

As well as the four music stages, there will be late-night comedy featuring Keith Farnan, Steve Bugeja, Jayde Adams and others.

Also on offer are craft stalls, high-quality food outlets and plenty of free entertainment for children.