CASTLE Howard is preparing to celebrate a quarter of a century of concerts at the iconic venue.

The historic house and gardens has played host to numerous concerts for the past 25 years and now plans to celebrate with their Summer Sounds event.

The event will see two nights of live music and entertainment set in the grounds against the backdrop of the house and gardens.

Pianist Jools Holland (pictured) will kick off the celebrations on Friday, August 21 as he takes to the stage with his rhythm and blues orchestra. Special guests include Marc Almond and singers Ruby Turner. Louise Marshall and Mabel Ray will join him on stage.

The main event will be the return of Castle Howard Proms Spectacular the following evening, which draws a very patriotic crowd year on year, with many donning Union Jack attire and waving flags throughout the performances.

Events manager at Castle Howard, Katie Collin, said that they were looking forward to the Proms Spectacular once again and marking the special occasion.

She said: “This year we are thrilled to be celebrating 25 years of Proms concerts and we’re hoping everyone will gather with friends and family to make it a truly memorable night.

“As a highlight of our events calendar the Proms Spectacular always delivers an electric atmosphere with rousing anthems and classical favourites, flag waving, fireworks and the spitfire fly-over.”

Conductor Jae Alexander will lead the orchestra through a rousing finale of the 1812 Overture, The Can Can and Land of Hope and Glory with Kaboom fireworks choreographed to the music for the finale.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own food, drink, chairs and rugs to make the most of the event and enjoy a picnic in the evening sunshine. There will be a range of hot and cold drinks and a bar on site. available on site as well as and a bar.

The gates open at 5.30pm with the concert starting at 7.30pm and gates open at 5pm. To book, visit castlehoward.co.uk or phone 0844 871 8819.