Supporting three local charities, Julia's House, Dorset Community Foundation and the Dorset Blind Association, the Upton House Music Festival 2016 kicked off in typical British fashion - with a chill in the air and the constant threat of rain.

However despite the unpredictable weather the mood was anything but damp as the audience enjoyed picnics and settled down to listen as the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra serenaded and the angelic voice of the extraordinarily talented Katherine Jenkins filled the beautiful grounds of Upton House.

The Welsh beauty was delightfully charming and warm as she introduced each song, including a tribute to her first child Aaliyah with the stunning anthem 'You'll Never Walk Alone' and a medley in celebration of Britain featuring songs from around the UK such as 'Jerusalem', 'Bread of Heaven' and 'My, My, My Delilah' - a hit for fellow Welsh musician Tom Jones.

As well as the melodious orchestra, Katherine was joined by the exceptionally talented violinists Vladimir and Anton Jablokov.

After the interval Katherine returned with popular hymn 'Amazing Grace' before moving on to 'I Could Have Danced All Night' from her favourite musical My Fair Lady.

A Katherine Jenkins performance would not be complete without her rendition of 'Time to Say Goodbye' and 'I Vow To Thee My Country', and she even treated us to a performance of 'We Are the Champions' ahead of the England v Wales game next week.

Katherine is not only exceptionally talented, but down to earth and compassionate.

She took time to speak with a disabled member of the audience and when another became ill, she ensured he was being tended to by medics and wished him well before continuing with the show.

Her compassion and love shines through her music and has made her the World's most prolific Classical singer.

Katherine Jenkins - what a performer to open this year's Festival with.