THE Blackwell Concert Band will be going the extra mile or so when it comes to a performance of Handel's Water Music, because they won't be on dry land.

The 300th anniversary of the piece will be celebrated at Vines Park in Droitwich, with the band passing through on a barge.

A spokesman said: "This free event celebrates three centuries since King George I commanded Handel to play his Water Music on a boat on the River Thames.

"The re-enactment in Vines Park will see the Canal and River Trust Community Work boat, The Wanderer, travel the canal in Vines Park with Blackwell Concert Band playing Handel’s Water Music.

"This will be accompanied by the Droitwich Waterways Trust's trip boat carrying ten VIPs; and on the canal bank, near the Waitrose swing bridge, there will be a commentary on Handel’s work with play acting."

Event organiser Alan Davey added: “This event has required amazing collaboration between members of the Droitwich Arts Network, the Canal and River Trust, the Droitwich Waterways Trust, Blackwell Band, and Wychavon District Council. It promises to be a spectacular event”.

A collection will be made for St Richard's Hospice.

The date for the diary will be Monday, July 17, from 7.45pm.

More information at: www.droitwichartsfest.org