THOUSANDS of people gathered at Bournemouth’s Pier Approach to listen to the iconic works of legendary composer John Williams.

The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performed two concerts of movie scores written by the five times Oscar winner yesterday evening.

Highlights of the shows included the soundtracks from Indiana Jones, Harry Potter, ET, Hook and Star Wars.

Jill Cockwell who came from Poole with her husband, daughter and granddaughter to watch the concert, said there was a “wonderful” atmosphere.

“It’s lovely,” she said.

“We came down for it last year and we came along to the children’s concert on Wednesday. We have loved it and we’ll definitely be back next year.”

For each of the concerts 1,750 tickets were allocated via a ballot system in July and dozens more people without tickets gathered behind the barriers to enjoy the show.

Sandra Gavin and Stephen Madden said they stumbled across the concert as they walked along the seafront.

Mr Madden said: “It’s a great use of the space and it’s much better than what was there before. The other building was horrific."

He added: "I'm looking forwrad to hearing ET. I love the film."

A spokesman from Bournemouth Tourism, which organised the event, said the shows had been a huge success.

He said: “There is a really good atmosphere and there are lots of happy smiley people. We have had lots of families come down and lots of dancing children.

“It’s exactly how we wanted it to be.”