Status Quo play Tidworth Festival

Status Quo will be rockin' all over Tidworth on Saturday night

Tidworth Festival, one of Wiltshire's most popular events, is set to be bigger and better when it returns on Friday 24 July, say organisers.

The festival opens on Perham Down with Music In Flight, a fusion of classical music synchronised to a flying display.

On Saturday, Status Quo take centre stage, with the event closing on Sunday to the sound of 1960s band The Troggs.

The three-day festival is part of a wider initiative to promote the Tidworth area in the county.

The Music In Flight programme promises to be a unique experience, featuring aerial displays by iconic World War II aircraft accompanied by modern planes and gliders.

The aerial display is set against music performed by a choir and professional symphony orchestra, supported by military musicians and trumpeters, playing classical and popular music.

Further entertainment will be provided by the Red Devils parachute display team, hot-air balloons and a spectacular firework display bringing the evening to a climax.

Wanderers return

Saturday's Status Quo centrepiece marks the bands first outdoor appearance in Wiltshire for more than 20 years. They last played in Swindon's Faringdon Road Park in 1986.

The band headed up by Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt have been around for over 40 years, and will be on hand to perform a set containing all of their hits including Rockin' All Over the World, Sweet Caroline and The Wanderer.

Before 60s icons The Troggs take to the stage on Sunday night, featuring singer Reg Presley lives in nearby Andover, the day will be packed with fun for all the family..

Falconry displays, parachuting by The Black Knights and The Flying Gunners motorcycle display team are just some of the highlights.

The festival is run by a registered charity that uses funds raised by the event to support local community groups, projects and schools.

The Tidworth Festival runs from Friday, 24 to Sunday 26, July 2009.