COMPETITORS in the world's premier yacht challenge were given a spectacular send-off in Southampton at the weekend.

A fireworks display lit up the night sky on Saturday to mark the countdown to the start of the Volvo Ocean Race yesterday afternoon.

Around 500 people flocked to Ocean Village to enjoy live music and entertainment in the build up to the race.

On Saturday former chart favourites Right Said Fred proved they were not too sexy for Southampton by headlining the Power in the Port concert. The gig also featured up and coming acts Girls At Play and Alice Band.

As night fell soul giant Edwin Starr, best known for the disco smash hit Eye To Eye Contact, received a warm welcome when he took to the stage to belt out his hits during a 30-minute set.

While the weekend's entertainment proved a hit with the crowds, many visitors were there just to enjoy the sight of crews making final preparations for the start of the race.

Youngsters were also kept busy with clowns, street entertainment and face painting all on offer.

Sandry Koo, events manager for the Volvo Ocean Race, said: "It's gone fantastically. We had some good music acts on the stage as well as street entertainment and lots of things for families."

The weekend marked the finale of a spectacular summer of sailing and boating events in Southampton.

A Southampton City Council spokeswoman said: "These events have been very important for the city as it brings a lot of business. We are the home of ocean racing and therefore all the greatest yachting races in the world start here.

"This one really is the grand prix of yachting racing."