News release 15 September 2008
An invited audience of around 150 people enjoyed a feast of music by Newhall Band that invoked national and local pride. Among the prommers' favourites included in the programme was The Dam Busters March, Elgar's Land of Hope and Glory and the Radetsky March.
The guests included representatives of the Rosliston Forestry Centre partners – the Forestry Commission, National Forest and South Derbyshire District Council - and organisations including The National Forest Company and Derby and Derbyshire Economic Development Partnership that have helped fund the new facilities.
As well as The Glade in the Forest, the new features on the award-winning site include new forest lodge accommodation. VIP guests at Friday’s celebration were given the opportunity to have a look at these as well as to enjoy a buffet ahead of the concert.
John Foxcroft, Chair of Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership (DDEP), the Leader of South Derbyshire District Council, Heather Wheeler and South Derbyshire Chairman Councillor Mrs Ann Hood, carried out the official opening ceremony of The Glade in the Forest.
They cut a ribbon across the stage, after which Newhall Band played a rousing fanfare.
Commenting on the evening, Debbie Chesterman, one of the Centre Managers, said: "Rain may have dampened the grass and trees in and around The Glade, but the spirit of the occasion remained very upbeat.
"Guests said they had really enjoyed themselves and if it was this good on a rainy night, they couldn’t wait to come back for another event when the weather was better. Everyone involved in organising the launch is very pleased with the way it went. We have given The Glade a suitably upbeat launch."
The Glade in the Forest has been purpose-built to provide an arena that can host a wide range of functions including theatrical and musical performances, corporate events, educational activities and civil marriage ceremonies.
Following the success of Friday’s concert the partners in Rosliston Forestry Centre are now hoping to make Last Night of the Proms an annual event that is open to all.