A CLEAR blue sky and bright sunshine created the perfect backdrop for the thousands who gathered at Darley Park for its 24th annual concert tonight.
Billed as the country's biggest free outdoor classical concert, this year's programme was based on the 175th anniversary of the railway coming to Derby and included both old and new music.
Families and friends turned out early with their picnic hampers to bag a good spot and make the most of the surprisingly warm afternoon.
Claire Sibley, a devoted visitor of the annual concert, was celebrating her 50th birthday, sipping wine in the sun with friends.
Claire, of Aston-on-Trent, said: "This is a birthday celebration for me every year. It's been great and the weather is brilliant."
Chaddesden couple Ruth and Rob Hawley were there enjoying a picnic with their family.
Ruth, 38, said: "It's one of our favourite community events to come to and we look forward to it every year."
Rob, 39, added: "It's great to have a good old sing-along. The weather has really made it this year."
Laura and Alex Fox-Lee were at the concert for the first time and had taken their eight-month-old daughter, Freya.
Alex, 32, of Kedleston Road, Derby, said: "We're loving it and the weather is ideal.
"I'm very impressed with the turnout and it seems very well organised."
Chris Brown, 65, was at the concert with husband Ken and friends Vanessa and Bryn Woodward.
Chris, of Spondon, said: "It's a good chance for everyone to get together, to have a drink, listen to music and to people-watch – and it's free."
Classic FM's Saturday lunchtime presenter, Nicholas Owen, hosted the concert, which included classics and newer music from the concert hall, stage and screen.
James Holmes conducted East Midlands orchestra Sinfonia Viva and the award-winning baritone Grant Doyle also returned to lead the vocals.
The event closed with a spectacular firework display.
