A SUFFOLK-based music promoter today said he hopes to turn a weekend of picnic concerts near Ipswich into an annual event.

A SUFFOLK-based music promoter today said he hopes to turn a weekend of picnic concerts near Ipswich into an annual event.

Orwell Park, next to Orwell Park School in Nacton, is to host three open air concerts from July 11 to 13.

Promoter John Hessenthaler said: “I have aimed to provide something for all tastes. The first concert will be a rare UK performance by Roger Hodgson of Supertramp with special guests Marillion.

“Saturday night will be a Motown night mix of musical styles and hopefully there will be a picnic party atmosphere. “The concert will include performances by The Four Tops and The Temptations and will also feature Alexander O'Neal, Boney M, and Heatwave.

“The final concert will be on Sunday, July 13 and will be a classical Last Night of The Proms spectacular concert with the London Gala Festival Orchestra conducted by Stephen Bell.

“As well as a firework spectacular finale and a stunning Spitfire flyover display, there will be special guest appearances from teenage phenomenon All Angels which features 18-year-old Laura Wright of Framlingham College.”

Lavenham-based Mr Hessenthaler has been in the music business for more than 20 years.

He said: “I chose Orwell Park because it is a stunning setting with amazing estuary views. It's also easy to park there. I hoping this will become an annual event.”

For tickets call the box office on 0870 240 9049 or visit www.ticketeast.co.uk

What sort of music do you like? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk