Absolutely magnificent. If anybody can be relied on for a good evening’s entertainment it’s Russell Watson, and on Friday night, against the spectacular backdrop of Waddesdon Manor, he dished up a real Jubilee treat with all his usual warmth and joie de vivre, and with that voice sounding as well-honed as ever. After a soaking at Christ Church last weekend I couldn’t help wondering whether I was being a glutton for punishment heading for another outdoor concert, but despite it being a little overcast, the rain obligingly held off.

Unusually for Russell, the evening seemed a little slow to catch fire. After a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, he gave us Abide with me and Danny Boy, the latter taken at a rather pedestrian tempo. But with Swing Low, Sweet Chariot he launched into a series of Russell classics, including You Raise Me Up, Caruso, Volare (cue for some hilarious audience participation) and the wonderful Funiculi Funicula, which included a bit of fancy footwork from Russell and conductor Robert D.C. Emery and brought the first half to an exhilarating close.

The second half was largely dedicated to the Olympics and the Jubilee. Queen’s We Are the Champions was in honour of our Olympic athletes, and there was almost a rock concert feel as the audience swayed as one, arms aloft. Also featured was new classical quartet Amore, whose album Stand Together was released in May.

If anyone was disappointed by Russell’s temporary absence, this was soon dispelled by this captivating group of young singers — all recent graduates from the Royal College of Music — who charmed everyone with a beautiful rendition of Ave Maria, and a rousing Libiamo ne’ lieti calici from La Traviata. Definitely a group to watch out for.

The evening closed in true Jubilee style with Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia, all sung with gusto by performers and audience alike.