Battle proms to mark end of war

The event will culminate in a spectacular fireworks display

Visitors can enjoy an evening of classical music, carefully choreographed Spitfire and cavalry displays, dramatic cannon fire and a firework finale overlooking the lake.

The Battle Proms takes much of its historical inspiration from the Napoleonic wars, which came to a conclusion 200 years ago at the Battle of Waterloo when Napoleon’s rule as Emperor of the French was ended.

As well as marking this anniversary, the Battle Proms team are also planning to celebrate 75 years since the Battle of Britain and 70 years since VJ Day, when the Second World War finally ended with the surrender of Japan.

These key historical events will be marked with a number of additions to the programme including The Battle of Britain Evening Gun Salute, honouring this pivotal air campaign and end of the war itself, as the gunners herald the arrival of the Grace Spitfire with a volley of shots from a vintage 13 Pounder field gun.

TV and radio presenter, author and celebrated compère Pam Rhodes will host the event and the Rockabellas, today’s answer to The Andrews Sisters, will warm up the audience with an upbeat performance of vintage vocals.

Later in the programme Battle Promenaders will be treated to the Battle Proms signature piece Beethoven’s Battle Symphony, performed with the full complement of 193 live firing cannon providing a thunderous percussion. Conducted by Douglas Coombes and performed by the New English Concert Orchestra, the programme also include classics from Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture to a finale packed with favourites such as Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia.

Andrew Mason, operations manager at Ragley, said: “Ragley is delighted to host yet another popular and nostalgic Battle Proms concert.

“With our lakeside setting, Ragley has a stunning, breathtaking location.”

Gates open at 4pm, entertainment begins from 5.50pm and the event finishes at 10pm. Adult tickets cost £36 if booked until the day before the concert and £40 on the day of the concert, subject to availability. Tickets for children aged five to 15 cost £17.

Visit www.battleproms.com or call 01432 355 416.