It’s Christmas Jim, but not as we know it.

However you can always bank on the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, just like Santa Claus, to deliver the goods, never mind all the other chaos going on.

So at exactly the moment Boris Johnson was giving his grim festive message to the nation on Saturday afternoon, the orchestra was belting out (not a phrase I normally use in connection with the BSO) a great triple whammy of Rocking Around the Christmas Tree, Merry Christmas Everybody and my personal favourite, I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day (although I really don’t).

Our favourite musicians had a little help with their little rock fest.

Maestro Pete Harrison, always the man you need when a note or two of fun, optimism and positivity is required.

And also from the brilliant West End singer, Laura Tebbutt, who brought her special brand of glitz and glamour, a sparkling personality and an absolutely fabulous voice which rose to every occasion, especially the always challenging All I Want For Christmas Is You.

It was her first time on stage since March 1 and the closure of School of Rock. You would never have known.

All the other favourites featured, including White Christmas, Santa Baby, Sleigh Bells and Deck the Halls.

The audience was also especially privileged to hear the premiere of Journey to Lapland by composer Adam Saunders.

This beautiful piece was very much in the style of John Williams and Mr Saunders was there to take our applause.

Another highlight was Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer and the lovely orchestration of the legendary Ron Goodwin.

After 90 minutes of complete and utter joy and escapism, it was back to the real world. Whatever that means these days.