South Hams music fans are raging after Boardmasters was cancelled over storm fears - hours before the gates were due to open.

The Newquay festival was due to be headlined by the Wu-Tang Clan, Florence + The Machine and Foals and more than 50,000 fans were expected.

Organisers announced the news late on Tuesday, August 6, after strong winds and rain were predicted for Friday and Saturday.

Although the music acts were not due to start until Friday, the festival’s gates were scheduled to open on Wednesday.

Elizabeth Gosden, from Dartmouth, was at work when she received the news at around 11pm.

She said she was devastated: “When I found out I didn’t know what to do with myself.

"I was shook. I’ve been waiting for this for ages. I worked 60 hour weeks just so I could get this time off, for it to be just taken from me.”

University student Louis Chapman, also from Dartmouth, said: “I’ve waited almost a year for it, booked seven days off work with nothing to fill it with now.”

South West MEP Caroline Voaden said her son was "gutted" that the festival was cancelled - but she understood the decision.

"Right call for safety but a damn shame nonetheless,” she said on Twitter.

A statement from Boardmasters reads: “Due to forecasted severe weather conditions, specifically high winds, Boardmasters 2019 has been cancelled.

“Following full consultation with all of the relevant authorities including independent safety advisors, Devon and Cornwall Police, emergency services and the Met Office, a final decision was made this evening.

“The safety of you, the fans and attendees, as well as performers and crew comes first, and the potential risk is too severe for the event to go ahead at this time.

“Refund advice will be shared as soon as possible - please follow Boardmasters’ social media for official updates.

“We sincerely regret the disappointment to fans, and apologise for any disruption caused to local businesses, performers and crew who were looking forward to Boardmasters as much as we were.”

Ticket prices ranged from £69 for day-entry passes through to VIP packages for five days of camping from about £370 per person.

The three-day event, attended by 55,000 people last year, was being held at Watergate Bay and festivalgoers had been already making their way to Newquay.

Great Western Railway said all return ticket holders can use their rides from 9.30am today, or receive a refund.

They are “still discussing options” about advance fares.