More than 8,000 people descended on Beacon Park on Saturday 3 September to enjoy a spectacular outdoor concert, organised by Lichfield District Council. 

Now in its thirteenth year, Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park is a huge free celebration of music, al fresco dining and fireworks. 

The evening’s festivities started at 5pm with activities for the children. Lots of young people had fun on a traditional merry-go-round and a series of giant inflatables, including a slide and T-Rex dinosaur.

At 6pm, The City of Lichfield Concert Band started playing a selection of popular classics, while the audience found their spaces and set up their picnics. Highlights included an ABBA medley, music from the Mary Poppins and Harry Potter films, and a Beatles Medley. 

Lichfield TV personality, Jane Dayus-Hinch, then took to the stage at 7.30pm to introduce the main concert. As compere for the night, Jane got everyone into the celebratory mood, with plenty of flag waving and cheering. 

The main concert featured The British Police Symphony Orchestra and soloists, Joanne Mayling and Mitesh Khatri. Musical treats included: a Fred Astaire Medley, Nessun Dorma, the Redetzky March, On the Street Where you Live from My Fair Lady, and Summertime.   

The evening was brought to a close with a rousing sing-along to Rule Britannia and Jerusalem. Finally, the night ended with a spectacular fireworks display to the stirring sounds of Land of Hope and Glory.  

Councillor Val Richards, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure Services, said: “Thousands of people from across the region came to Beacon Park to enjoy our free Lichfield Proms. The music was superb, from the warm up band to the main concert. This year also featured encores of favourite pieces, including the Redetzky March and Nessun Dorma.

“On the night I felt so proud to be a part of this huge community event. The park was full of friends, family, neighbours and visitors who came together to enjoy good company and fantastic entertainment.  

“It’s a huge event to stage and I would like to thank everyone who worked so hard to organise Lichfield Proms, as well as our sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who made a donation on the night - we couldn’t have done it without your kind support. A big thank you must also go to the orchestra, singers and compere, who made it such a memorable evening.”