Preparations are well under way for one of the biggest events in Medway’s calendar – the Rochester Castle Concerts.

The impressive stage was set up over the weekend ahead of the first gig on Wednesday when Status Quo return to Rochester for the fifth time in 10 years.

Music lovers can enjoy the experience of live music under an open sky right here in Medway, without having to spend the night in a tent.

This year’s Castle Concerts open on Wednesday with the return of Status Quo.

It’s their fifth time here since 2005, and rock legend Francis Rossi has confirmed it’s one of his favourite gigs.

He said: “I normally say I don’t look forward to any gig more than any other gig, but I do with this one. It’s a nice setting.

“The funny thing about that gig is we get to stand there and look at that fantastic castle and they [the audience] have to look at us.”

The picturesque setting is also the reason Peter Andre is returning to Rochester for the second time.

The Aussie star said: “I remember the incredible view of the castle. I was blown away by it, and the amazing crowds.

“As soon as I came off stage I said, ‘I want to do that again’. I’m really looking forward to it.

“I’m always looking to get people up on stage, too, so come in shoes you can dance in.”

Peter is performing on Thursday, supported by the boys from Blue, who he has shared a stage with several times before.

Despite Lee Ryan from the band growing up in Chatham, it will be the first time they have all visited the area, and Antony Costa said they were looking forward to the show.

The 34-year-old said: “We just love going out there and performing. We’re going to do all the hits. That’s what people want to hear.

“If we can entertain people and they go home with a smile on their face, we’ve done a good job.”

Friday night has taken on the title of party night, and this year it’s 1980s themed with When the Going Gets Tough singer, Billy Ocean headlining.

It’s three years since Billy Ocean appeared at Rochester Castle, and the singer-songwriter is looking forward to coming back.

He said he loved performing on stage.

“It’s something you can’t really describe, you have to experience it,” he said. “You’re making people happy.

It’s an incredible feeling. You can just enjoy it and give people a good time, it’s a special feeling.”

There is a slight change of pace on Saturday as the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and soprano Laura Wright bring the main events to a close.

Laura said: “These kind of concerts, summer concerts, are my favourite thing to do. It’s my favourite time of year.

“For me, it’s the kind of relaxed environment the audience can have. They can bring a picnic along and have a drink. It’s a really lovely patriotic feeling without being over the top.”

But the stage will remain up for one more day, as talented young musicians from Medway perform on Sunday for Under Siege.

Gates open at noon on Sunday.

The Status Quo gig is sold out but tickets are still available for the other three concerts – see www.thecastleconcerts.co.uk or call the box office on 01634 338338.