CHESHIRE’S scouts are ditching the traditional songs around a camp fire for a more classical sound as they welcome the National Scout & Guide Symphony Orchestra to Chester ahead of its double billing of summer concerts.

The orchestra, which is made up of more than 70 talented musicians from across the Scout Association and Girlguiding UK groups, arrived at its base at Chester University on Sunday, August 2, to start its week-long visit to the city.

Members, who are aged between 13 and 25, will have five days of rehearsals before their first performance at The Grange School Theatre, in Hartford, on Friday, August 7, starting at 7.30pm.

The orchestra will then play in the historic Chester Cathedral on Saturday, August 8, with the performance starting at 7.30pm.

Musical performances will include Symphony in D Minor by Cesar Frank, Two Slavonic Dances by Antonin Dvorak, The Dam Busters March by Eric Coates and Fanfare for the Common Man by Aaron Copland.

Graham Phillips, County Commissioner for Cheshire Scouts, said: “It is fantastic to welcome the National Scout & Guide Symphony Orchestra to Chester.

“The Orchestra has an amazing reputation, not only in the UK, but around the world.

“All of the scouts and guide groups from across the county are thrilled to see them here, and we are looking forward to two remarkable performances.”

Tickets cost £10 and are available from the Warrington Scout Shop, Chester Cathedral Office, Chester Tourist Information Centre or by calling 01925 763927.

Tickets will also be available on the night at each venue.