The Pig Pen Music Festival, now in its fourth year, was held at High Farm, Elwick, on Saturday.

Around 1,500 music lovers attended, with the downpours helping create Glastonbury-style conditions.

Hartlepool band The White Negroes headlined the event, with other acts including Radio Dynamics, Sex Generals and Band of Mojos. Ian Monaghan, lead singer of The White Negroes, said he was delighted with his band's set and the overall event.

"The crowd were very happy, as happy as pigs in muck you could say," said Ian.

"The rain had stopped when it began but the mud remained. It just added to the atmosphere.

"The weather definitely didn't dampen any spirits as the vibe was good and everyone seemed to be having a good time."

Ian also picked out two Hartlepool bands as stars of the future.
Reverse and Lithium Speed Dementia both had great receptions when they took to the stage and didn't disappoint the crowd with their performances.

A rumour had been circulating that a guest appearance could be on the cards, with the Arctic Monkeys having turned up at a similar event in Richmond last weekend, though any fans hoping to catch the indie stars were left disappointed.