ORGANISERS of a budding music event have announced support from local businesses now means they will now be able to offer free entry.

Richard Rowles and Andover Radio have completely removed the ticket price of their inaugural concert, Andover Proms in the Park.

The announcement comes two weeks before the event is due to be held. Mr Rowles said: “This happy new arrangement allows us to continue with plans to raise money for two great local charities, Andover Mind and the Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

“Although the event is free to enter, I believe most local people will be gracious enough to make a small donation on entry.

“We will be fully refunding people who have bought tickets”.

As previously reported by the Advertiser, Andover Town Council unanimously pulled its support just weeks before the event, saying it could be left with a possible liability of £20,000.

Reasons for the council withdrawing its public liability insurance and administration support included little to unconfirmed income for the event meaning the town council faced a liability of up to £20,000 of taxpayers’ money, according to the chairman of its Community Engagement Committee, Andy Fitchet.

Despite being disappointed with the council’s decision, organiser Mr Rowles vowed the event would still go ahead in support of the two charities.

Andover-based businesses have since came to the rescue by offering their support of the event after hearing of its predicament.

Some of the businesses that showed their support, include KJM Windows, Active Staff, Tip Top Balloons, Villagio, New Street Dental Care and David Mellor Jewellers.

The family-friendly evening is set to feature a range of local musicians over three hours, including Lisa Faye, formerly of the Barbra Streisand Experience, and the Mighty Hump.

The event will then switch over to a 42ft big screen television for the live finale of the Last Night of the Proms from the Royal Albert Hall between 9pm and 10.40pm.

Andover Proms in the Park will take place at Vigo Park on Saturday, September 9 between 5.30pm to 10.30pm.

There will be a licensed bar, catering and toilet facilities.

Visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs for free but can secure VIP seating for a small donation.

For more information, visit loveandover.com/proms