MORE than 3,000 classical music fans turned out to enjoy a special concert in aid of Clatterbridge-based St John's Hospice in Wirral on Saturday night.

Conducted by Sir Edward Warren, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra burst into life for its third major open-air concert to be staged at Paton Field, home of Caldy Rugby Club.

Performing on the main stage was 22-year-old mezzo-soprano and Royal Academy of Music student Lilly Papaioannu, a former pupil at Mostyn House School, Parkgate.

The concert did not start until 8pm, but those arriving early were treated to a Frank Sinatra tribute by Heswall-based Ole Blue Eyes' impersonator, David Kopov.

Capacity for this year's event was limited to 5,000 people.

Sue Dean, St John's Hospice fundraising manager, told me: "It was a wonderful night. The weather was fantastic and the turnout was excellent.

"I'd like to say 'Thank you' to everyone who turned out to support the concert and to those who have worked behind the scenes to make the concert the success it was. We look forward to next year."