Big band sound for popular open-air concert

The Syd Lawrence Orchestra and singers are back at Brantingham Park, Elloughton, on Saturday, July 10, for an evening of Big Band Classics from the golden age of Swing, compered by the BBC's Blair Jacobs.

The 12th annual Classics in the Park concert has raised over 130,000 for local charities over the past decade.

Last year the event attracted around 2,500 concertgoers and organisers are hoping for a similar turnout.

One of the organisers, Louise Morton, said: "We did a survey during the event and people said they wanted more of a big band sound. There's a really nice friendly atmosphere: people are actually queueing from 4pm to get in and the event doesn't start till 7.30pm.

"We always have a good orchestra or band and people just really enjoy listening to music outside.

"It hasn't been going very long and we've already sold more than 50 per cent of the gazebos.

"Fingers crossed it looks as if it's going to be as successful as other years."

This year's concert is in support of the Daisy Appeal and Dove House Hospice's Love you 2 Appeal, which is trying to raise 2.5m over the next two and a half years to extend the hospice. The new state-of-the-art facilities means patients with motor neurone disease and multiple sclerosis will no longer have to travel as far away as York.

East Riding Council, Elite Office Furniture, The Co-operative Bank, Sainsbury's and BBC Radio Humberside are all supporting the event.

Tickets are now on sale at Hull City Box Office, North Ferriby Post Office and St Anne's School in Welton. They cost 20 in advance or 25 on the gate.

For further details, visit www.classicsinthepark.co.uk or call 01482 665385.