The countdown to one of the highlights of Alton's social calendar has begun. Held in the Public Gardens, The Last Night of the Proms will be on Saturday, July 11.
The traditional programme of popular music will be led by Alton Concert Orchestra, accompanied by Alton Community Choir and Alton Choral Society.
Organised by Alton Town Council, it will be the culmination of months of careful planning and rehears
als by the town's musical elite who will be performing a programme of light classics, with a traditional second half, including Edward Elgar's patriotic Pomp and Circumstance March and culminating in rousing renditions of Rule Britannia and Jerusalem, in which participation by the audience is expected.
Alton Concert Orchestra chairman, Dr Chris Leggett said: "This concert is now a firm favourite with the orchestra and we enjoy it as much as the audience.
"There is an American theme woven into the first half of this year's concert.
"We have long known of the existence of a symphony orchestra in Alton, Illinois, and on contacting them were thrilled to hear they have a sister organisation in Alton UK and have sent us an upbeat message of support to print in the programme.
"We are also introducing the Alton Choral Society to the Proms audience, and hope you enjoy their contribution."
Food and refreshments will be available in the gardens, this year joined by a bar and a vendor of New Forest ice cream. Concert-goers are encouraged to make a night of it by bringing rugs, deckchairs, picnics and Union flags, which will also be on sale.
Although the event is free to enter, there will be a retiring collection on all gates at the end to help offset costs.
In the interests of health and safety, the Public Gardens will remain closed until 6pm, when they open for picnics.
