HERE'S the first look of the Sonisphere stages at Knebworth as the festival site prepares for this weekend's rock and metal extravaganza.

The Welwyn & Hatfield Times was given an exclusive peek behind the scenes of the first European touring festival this morning.

More than 40,000 rock fans are due to attend the event each day at the stately home.

The festival will be headlined on Saturday by American nu-metallers Linkin Park with metal legends Metallica closing the spectacular on Sunday night.