AUDIENCES at a series of military-themed classical firework concerts have raised almost £46,000 for charity.

Armed forces charity the SSAFA hosted five Battle Proms concerts this summer, with one taking place at Blenheim Palace in Woodstock.

The events altogether raised £45,877.96 for the good cause which supports servicemen and women and their families.

The Battle Proms featured a full orchestral performance of classical favourites, such as Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, by the New English Concert Orchestra.

While the Blenheim concert was slightly smaller this year to allow for social distancing, organisers said it lined up yet another programme of "soul-stirring classical favourites".

Jonathan Sandall, director of fundraising at SSAFA, said: “We are extremely grateful for the generosity of the audiences at the five Battle Proms concerts across the summer. We have raised a superb £45,877.96 through the season and couldn’t have done it without the fantastic support of the organisers, venue hosts, and our amazing volunteers."