THE gods were smiling on Rochester's Castle Concerts as clear blue skies confounded predictions of a weekend washout.

Whether it was the high level of decibels produced by the acts, the heat from burgers being fried or strength of prayer by organisers at the cathedral next door, it was enough to send the clouds scurrying.

Ticket holders, and the people sat outside enjoying the music in pub gardens beyond the castle walls certainly weren't complaining either, helped by a series of performances that will linger long in the memory.

First up on Thursday was Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, including support by soul legend Ruby Turner, and dance artist Louise Marshall. But it was the pint-sized Sixties star Lulu who stole the show.

She had the sell-out audience up on their feet as soon as she sang the opening line to her infamous song Shout. The audience showed their appreciation with a standing ovation at the end.

Former Kinks frontman Ray Davies displayed some rock'n'roll rebellion before the start of his barnstorming performance on Friday, after asking for video projection screens on either side of the stage to be switched off.

Last up, and again proving a flag-waving massive hit with the paying public, was The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra proms. Ticket holders used the event as the destination for some patriotic tub thumping, hen parties and even a wedding reception.