PATRONS will be treated to a firework and cannon extravaganza at the finale of the English Symphony Orchestra's Classical Favourites Concert next month.

The event is being held at the Three Counties Showground on Sunday, August 25, and presents an opportunity to hear thrilling music against the stunning backdrop of the Malvern Hills.

The spectacular ending, which will combine fireworks with cannonfire courtesy of the guns of Worcester's 104th Regiment Royal Artillery for the finale to Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, will be a particularly exciting aspect, says conductor William Boughton.

Mr Boughton is also pleased that members of the Youth Orchestra will be playing alongside professional musicians.

"The concert brings in a huge cross-section of an audience and is the ideal opportunity for people to introduce themselves and their children to classical music," he said.

The orchestra will play a wide selection of favourite pieces including Nimrod from Elgar's Enigma Variations and Beethoven's Pastorale Symphony No 6. Michael Bochmann will also perform Bruch's famous Violin Concerto in G minor.

Everybody attending is encouraged to take a picnic, sing along with soprano soloist Susan Black and wave Union Flags in time to the rousing anthems.

The gates open at 4.45pm. The main concert starts at 7pm but is preceded at 6pm by the ESO Children's Orchestras, conducted by Janet Masters.

One child is admitted with every adult ticket purchased. Tickets are £17 in advance, £20 on the day and are available from the box office on 01684 560696.