IT was a long and unpleasant night for those camping at Creamfields last night, Thursday.

More than 70,000 people are set to attend this year’s music festival at Daresbury, with thousands camping at the site.

While many will have been looking forward to this for months, the weather will have dampened their experience.

Storm Lilian arrived this morning, Friday, with the Met Office issuing a yellow ‘danger to life’ weather warning for strong winds.

Winds were so strong that video captured by a member of staff camping at the site shows an empty tent being blown into the air by the gusts.

The staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “I slept fine myself, although it was raining overnight.

“The storm hit at around 5.30am this morning, and everyone woke up to try to hold onto their tents.

“Some had to leave their tent to sleep in their cars as their tents were too damaged.

“Some staff have also cancelled their shift here and left.”

The weather warning came into effect at 5am today, but it is expected to end by 11am this morning.

A Met Office spokesman said: “Some very strong winds are likely to develop, with gusts widely in the 50mph to 60mph range, with a lower chance that a small core of winds gusting 65mph to 75mph, and perhaps 80mph, could push quickly east during the morning.”

Creamfields organisers have already warned festivalgoers of major delays entering the site due to current high winds and safety concerns.

Visitors who are camping are being urged to make sure tents are pegged down correctly, and that additional guy lines are used to ensure further stability during the gusty weather conditions.

A festival spokesman said: “We advise campers stay inside their tents during high winds for safety.

“Please secure any loose items around your campsite and within the festival grounds. High winds can cause objects to become hazardous projectiles, so keep your area tidy.”

The Creamfields team assured visitors that all temporary structures, including the stages, are being regularly safety checked, while some areas may be closed until they are deemed safe.