The line-up boasts some of music’s biggest names and hottest acts but one surprise guest at T in the Park yesterday received the warmest welcome of all.
An unexpected burst of sunshine was greeted by loud cheers and applause from fans at the festival’s new home in the grounds of Strathallan Castle.
The weekend-long extravaganza, now in its 22nd year, got off to a soggy start after the 1,100-acre site was battered by torrential downpours overnight, threatening to turn it into a mudbath.
The rain continued off and on until mid-afternoon when the clouds appeared to part just as indie stars the Wombats took to the main stage.
Glaswegian rockers Prides had the honour of being the first band to the play the main stage at T’s new home, while Kasabian performed a storming headline set to close day one.
The festival was forced to leave its traditional home at Balado after an underground pipeline sparked health and safety fears.
Event promoters DF Concerts won permission for the Strathallan move in April, after a prolonged planning battle focused largely on a protected osprey nest near the main arena.
Yesterday’s line-up of about 50 bands across six stages boasted dance icon David Guetta, Philadelphia rock band the War on Drugs and singer Sam Smith.
Teething problems were reported on social media, with some campers complaining their tents had been targeted by thieves. And at least one bus firm said the roads to the festival site were unsuitable for coaches.
Police are investigating after a 17-year-old was bitten on the face in an assault at one of the campsites.
He was said to be badly hurt and officers are following a positive line of inquiry.
Just after 7pm police said 12 people had been arrested and 83 offences had been reported, including a dozen thefts from tents.
A spokesman said: “This has been on a par with last year, so the change of venue doesn’t seem to have made a difference to crime figures.”
He added that, despite some delays, the traffic management strategy appeared to have worked.
Superintendent Colin Brown said: “The vast majority of people have enjoyed themselves today and taken our advice and behaved responsibly.
“However, a small number have ignored our advice and have been dealt with.”
Meanwhile festival boss Geoff Ellis said he was delighted with the event so far, adding: “As it’s a brand new site for everyone this year, we ask fans not to assume anything and to take the time to explore and get to know the campsite and the arena.
“We’re starting with a blank canvas and we want everyone to respect our beautiful surroundings.”