Day 1: V Festival Chelmsford

18 August 2013, 11:18 | Updated: 18 August 2013, 11:28

Beyonce wowed the crowds at V Festival, kicking off her headline Chelmsford set with Run The World.

Despite the rain it didn't stop tens of thousands dancing and singing along.

She played her greatest hit spanning her 17 year career, with many outfit changes and showing off her new blonde bobbed haircut.

Beyonce, who will be headlining the festival in Weston Park in Staffordshire tonight, closed her set with Halo.

Meanwhile Jessie J also took to the stage and used to performance to unveil details on her new album 'Alive', which will be out on September 23rd, saying she wanted to make the announcement in her home town.

Talking to Heart after her high energy performance she said: 'It was amazing, I feel very satisfied, I feel very fulfilled and very blessed to back on the stage and still have that many people still screaming and shouting for me.'

Essex Police have told us they have arrested around 50 people from across Essex, Kent, Suffolk, West Midlands and east London have so far at the event.

The majority were for drug possession , two for drink-driving and two for theft.

They are also investigating three thefts from tents and a car break-in.

Policing co-ordinator, Chief Supt Andy Prophet, said: "The festival has a reputation for being one of the safest on the summer calendar and Essex Police is working with the event organisers to ensure it remains that way.

 "If you coming to V to commit crime, then be warned. There is an extensive array of CCTV cameras as well as my officers, private security patrols, drug sniffer dogs and a range of other undercover activity all designed to catch you."