FLAG-WAVING revellers burst into patriotic song as they celebrated the climax of the North-East's own version of the last Night of the Proms at the weekend.

The Northern Proms attracted more than 2,700 people to the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street for a spectacular event, with world-class operatic entertainment.

Top of the bill were Consett-born compere Graeme Danby and fellow soloists Valerie Reid and Bethany Halliday.

The event, part-sponsored by The Northern Echo, began with Felling Male Voice Choir setting the tone. Their medley included numbers such as The Gospel Train, Copland's Ching-a-Ring Chaw, Nessum Dorma and Keep Your Feet Still Geordie Hinnie.

The Will Todd Jazz Trio Up then provided perfect backing for those tucking into their picnic hampers.

People wearing dinner jackets and evening dresses - with perfectly set tables complete with candelabra - enjoyed the Proms alongside families spread out on good old-fashioned rugs. Everywhere there were Union Jacks - hats, flags, bow ties, waistcoats, died hair and tablecloths.

Providing musical backing for the rest of the evening was Chester-le-Street Brass Band whose players tackled everything from classics to Geordie ballads with equal aplomb.

Flugal horn soloist Fiona Wallace provided one of the highlights of the evening, and Graeme Danby drew the evening to a close with full-throated renditions of Jerusalem, Rule Britannia and I Vow to Thee my Country. It all ended with Pomp and Circumstance with the words Land of Hope and Glory ringing out as the skies filled with a spectacular fireworks display.

July 30 is already pencilled in for next year's event.