by Mary Graham

We may be adjusting to winter, but already the countdown is already on to a popular summer evening of classical music, back after a two-year break.

The Leeds Castle Open Air Classical Concert returns next year, promising an evening of classics on Saturday, July 3.

Topping the bill is the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, with guests, Wynne Evans, Elizabeth Watts (pictured), Richard Morrison and the event will be narrated by actor Robert Powell.

Rousing classics such as Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia will be features of the concert, and the line-up also includes a fly-over by a Spitfire and Hurricane and a performance from the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas.

A launch event featuring some of the performers was held at Leeds Castle, staged by concert organisers, Heritage Events.

Mr Powell, currently playing Mark Williams in BBC1’s Holby City, but also well-known for roles as Jesus in Jesus of Nazareth and as Briggs in The Detectives with comedian Jasper Carrott, told guests at the launch he had never narrated an outside concert before.

Mr Powell, pictured with reporter Mary Graham, said: "Standing in front of 8,000 people at the Royal Albert Hall was terrifying enough, but there could be 16,000 people at the castle next year.

"I’m particularly excited about the West End musical section, which is a new addition to the programme.

"In fact there will be entertainment at the castle from 4pm and things won’t round off until 11pm. That’s seven hours of entertainment for the audience, but I imagine it will be thoroughly knackering for me!"

Bookings for the concert are now being taken at 0845 652 6262, or heritage-events.co.uk