BATTLE Proms returns to Hatfield House this summer with a special discounted ticket offer finishing at the end of the month

WANT explosions, daring horsemen, an aerial display from an iconic plane and sublime music?

Well Battle Proms – the UK’s premier classical picnic proms – ticks all those boxes with a Spitfire flying overhead, cannons, Napoleonic cavalry and fireworks.

Taking place in the beautiful grounds of Hatfield House on Saturday, July 23, the event is back for another explosive concert.

The programme includes soul-stirring classics fitting to the grandeur of the historic setting, from Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, and Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor, to a finale packed with prom favourites such as Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and, of course, Rule Britannia.

But it is Beethoven’s Battle Symphony that gives this unique event its name.

This powerful piece of music is rarely performed as Beethoven intended, with 193 live firing cannons as part of the score, but Battle Proms guests are treated to the full effect of this thunderous percussion, an experience not to be missed.

And the military twist doesn’t end there. The Battle Proms audience will also enjoy daring horsemanship and a carefully choreographed aerial display featuring that most iconic of battle planes – the Spitfire.

Proceeds from the day will go to Combat Stress, which specialises in helping veterans with psychological injuries caused through service to their country.

Host is much-loved Songs of Praise presenter Pam Rhodes and soprano Denise Leigh will bring the finale to life before a spectacular firework display lights up the summer sky in Hatfield Park.

Gates open at 4.30pm and the concert finishes around 10pm to 10.30pm.

Battle Proms attracted a record attendance at Hatfield House last summer.

And an early booking offer of �29.50 ends on April 30, with tickets rising to �32 on May 1.

Children aged five to 15 get in for �15 and four and unders for free. Tickets on the day – if any are left – will be �37.

For more information, or to book tickets, visit the Battle Proms website at www.battleproms.com or call 01432 355416.

* Folk by the Oak takes place in the leafy surroundings of Hatfield House the day after Battle Proms. Click on the Folk by the Oak links above right for more details.