MUSIC lovers braved horrendous weather to enjoy a picnic and concert in the park at Chirk Castle on Sunday.

Fron Male Voice Choir, which contains many local members, performed with Chirk brothers David and Stewart Kempster. It is 10 years since the Chirk brothers have performed together professionally. 

Mayor of Wrexham Ian Roberts was present with his wife Hillary who helped organise the event.

“The turnout was impressive,” said Cllr Roberts. “It looked like a sea of umbrellas. The singing was absolutely spectacular, really something different, and the reaction to it was that everyone was so determined to have a good time – there was a feeling like nothing I’ve experienced.”

He said he thought about three quarters of those who bought tickets stoically braved the weather, and were well rewarded.

“And of course, once the concert finished, the rain stopped,” he added.

The success of the event was a boost for Chirk and Wrexham, Cllr Roberts said.

“We’ve got spectacular places around Wrexham so we should use them – even in the rain the scenery and ambience were really something special,” he said.

“We’re pleased we’ve made a few bob for the Mayor’s charities, but just as importantly we’ve shown what we can do in Wrexham, that local musicians and soloists have provided a fabulous evening of entertainment.” he concluded.

The midsummer concert was organised as part of the Wrexham Year of Culture.