AN INAUGURAL outdoor music event took place despite the threat of 'torrential downpours'.

More than 300 people turned up to the first ever Andover Proms in the Park, in Vigo Park, on Saturday, 9 September - organisers had said they had been increasingly concerned the bad weather could put people off going to the free-to-attend event.

The concert audience was treated to live performances from local acts, including Marie Ponting and Robbie Bowry, Alex Krupa and Chris Berntsen.

A 'stunning' solo performance was given by 12-year-old Lucy Sumner, and Suzanne Poole, 16, gave a performance of Ave Maria and an acapella rendition of Hallelujah.

Mayor of Test Valley, councillor Carl Borg-Neal attended the whole evening and gave his thanks to visitors.

He said: “This is a professionally run event that showcases some of the amazing talent we have in the Test Valley and it’s exactly the sort of event we want in Andover."

The event was financially underwritten by Andover Radio with a grant from Test Valley Borough Council.

Sponsorship money came from businesses, including KJM Windows, Active Staff and Oaktree Accountants.

David Harber, of Andover Radio, said: “We will continue to work in partnership with forward looking people and organisations to help fulfil the huge potential in this town.

“Andover Proms is a small part of a larger move to raise aspirations and achieve great things for Andover."