PETERSFIELD Salvation Army celebrated its 130th anniversary in style – and was blessed by the weather.

Captain Linda Read led the team which organised the Proms of Praise party in the grounds of The Petersfield School, and marked the Queen’s 90th birthday.

Capt Read said: “It was a wonderful weekend, really excellent, and went much better than anticipated.

“There were a few spots of rain early on, but after that the weather was good.

“There wasn’t one highlight really, it was all amazing, the band was brilliant, the singers were brilliant, and Herne Junior School choir was excellent.

“I would also like to offer our thanks to the school for the use of their grounds.”

The weekend of celebration began with the proms and picnic on Saturday, with Salvation Army Territorial Leaders Commissioners Clive and Marianne Adams opening the event.

Petersfield Mayor James Deane then led the crowd in singing the National Anthem.

The Solent Fellowship Band of Salvation Army musicians from across the south, and solo singers Lauren Bergin and Gary Peckham, led the crowd in singing their favourite proms tunes.

Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia, were enjoyed by the flag-waving picnickers. The party closed to Beethoven’s Ode to Joy from his ninth symphony, while the audience sang The Hymn of Joy.

On the Sunday, there were two services of celebration in the Salvation Army church in Swan Street.

Capt Read said: “We had to bring in chairs because the services were packed.

“And afterwards we had 53 adults and children.

“Three times the corps has nearly closed, but each time it gained a new lease of life. Now we are growing – it’s exciting times.

“I would like to thank everyone for their work in making the weekend a wonderful experience from beginning to end.”