A SPECTACULAR eve-of-race send-off was planned for the Volvo Ocean Race yachts at Southampton's Ocean Village today.

The day was due to kick off with a live concert and entertainment culminating in a magnificent fireworks display.

Two free concerts, Power In The Port in the afternoon and a special appearance by soul giant Edwin Starr in the evening, were predicted to attract thousands to the event.

Power In The Port was bringing four bands, including Right Said Fred, Girls At Play and Alice Band, to the Ocean Village stage. Power FM was promoting the concert, which was running from 2pm-4.30pm.

This evening, 1970s revivalists Emergency Flares were scheduled to be among the bands in a line-up headlined by Edwin Starr, best known for the disco hit Eye To Eye Contact. His set was being followed at 10pm by a fireworks spectacular lasting for around 15 minutes.

During the day, professional mountain bike demonstrations, special appearances by the Power Rangers and scourge of the high seas Jethro the Pirate were set to keep the crowds entertained.

Visitors to Ocean Village could also get hands-on experience of life aboard a Volvo Ocean 60 at special interactive displays and exhibitions.

Today is the penultimate day of Southampton Waterfront Week, which brings together the start week of the Volvo Ocean Race and Southampton's Boat Show.

Ocean Race yachts leave for their epic journey tomorrow at 3pm off Cowes.

The 32,700-mile round-the-world race has the highest profile in the sailing calendar and is acknowledged as the world's premier ocean race.

All competitors will be racing in identical Volvo Ocean 60 yachts for nine months as they sail around the world, reaching speeds of 30 knots round Cape Horn.