Sunningwell's village pond grew from a spring which was first identified in 811AD, and then mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1447, writes Helen Peacocke.

Visitors are said to have come from miles around to dip their hands in the water during that time as it was reputed to heal sore eyes and restore sight to the blind. No such miracles are expected these days.

However, thanks to a massive restoration programme undertaken during the past two years, the pond which had been sadly neglected for some time, is now the focal point of the village and attracts both wild ducks and visitors who enjoy its wild beauty and the picturesque backdrop of the 12th century church built beside it.

To celebrate the new Millennium and the attractive wild flowers that are now flourish among the reeds, the village has decided to stage their own version of The Last Night of the Proms from a stage in the village pond this weekend.

It's the idea of Mike Woodward, chairman of the Sunningwell Pond Proms, who felt this year should not pass without some form of celebration which would bond the community and offer a memorable night suitable for the entire family to enjoy together.

He says that by staging a concert from a small specially constructed stage fixed in the centre of the pond they would be creating a first for the village, and something that would linger in the memories of those attending long after other Millennium events have been forgotten.

The music will be performed by the Singasong for Sixpence Company, founded by Rebecca Moseley-Morgan a professional soprano who worked with the Welsh national Opera Company for many years. They will be joined by the Oxford Vocalists from Sunningwell.

The programme kicks off with a collection of works celebrating great love affairs in opera, including extracts from Puccini's La Boheme and Verdi's La Traviata. These are followed by works which provide a taste of France, two Verdi Choruses and a selection of pieces by Mozart. The second half of the programme includes two anthems by Handel, a jolly selection from Gilbert and Sullivan and naturally Rule Britannia and Jerusalem.

Shows are tomorrow and Saturday, at 7.30pm. See music listings for box office details.