AFTER an absence of five years, the 'Proms in the Park' spectacular is back.

The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra will play in Meyrick Park for the first time since the Russian Extravaganza of 2011.

Thousands of music lovers are expected to flock to the three-day summer festival between August 5-7. Tickets go on sale today.

The event will feature a classical concert on the Friday night conducted by Frank Zielhorst.

The BSO will then play ABBA's greatest hits on the Saturday night, under the baton of Pete Harrison.

Sunday will be a full family fun day and community programme with a son et lumiere finale including lights, lasers and fireworks.

It promises to be one of the most popular events of the year and is back by public demand.

The Daily Echo has teamed up with the BSO as media partner for the Proms.

BSO chief executive, Dougie Scarfe said: "We are delighted to be making our highly anticipated return to Meyrick Park, with thanks to the generous support from Bournemouth Borough Council.

"We look forward to welcoming thousands over the three days to enjoy this summer spectacle with an extraordinary programme of live music, works and events that has something for everyone."

Council leader Cllr John Beesley added: "This will be one of the biggest and most spectacular events of the summer in Bournemouth and we are absolutely thrilled to be able to help make it happen. It's not a moment too soon."

The Friday concert will include Dance of the Hours, Ride of the Valkyries, Star Wars, the Barber of Seville, Carmen, Toccata and Fugue and Sabre Dance.

For tickets, see BSOlive.com or call the box office on 01202 669925.

For full details of the three-day programme, see bournemouthecho.co.uk.

PROMS IN THE PARK

Friday August 5

BSO Classical Extravaganza conducted by Frank Zielhorst

Barber of Seville, Rossini

Dance of the Hours, Ponchielli

Carmen, Bizet

Toccata and Fugue, Bach/Stokowski

Stars Wars theme, Williams

Ride of the Valkyries, Wagner

Samson and Delilah, Saint-Saens

Sabre Dance, Khachaturian

Saturday August 6

ABBA Symphonic Spectacular conducted by Pete Harrison

Includes Super Trouper, I Have A Dream, The Winner Takes It All, Waterloo, Fernando, Money, Money, Money,The Name of the Game, Mamma Mia, Gimme, Gimme, Gimme, Voulez-Vous, Dancing Queen and many more

Sunday August 7

Kinson family orchestra

Mini BSO family concert

Veterans Orchestra

BSO strings concert

Inspiration Choir

Son et Lumiere