King's Lynn Festival began last night with a sell-out concert at St Nicholas' Chapel and the promise of more full houses in the coming two weeks.The European Union Chamber Orchestra teamed up with King's Lynn Festival Chorus for the opening concert in the chapel which has staged many memorable concerts during the festival's 59-year history.

King's Lynn Festival begins tonight with a sell-out concert at St Nicholas' Chapel and the promise of more full houses in the coming two weeks.

The European Union Chamber Orchestra will team up with King's Lynn Festival Chorus for the opening concert in the chapel which has staged many memorable concerts during the festival's 59-year history.

Administrator Joanne Mawson said festival bookings were higher than for some years. 'It is especially important that we have a really good box office because business sponsorship is well down this year, which is not surprising in the current financial climate. Fortunately we receive ongoing support from the borough and county councils and a number of private sponsors.

'Thanks to the very wide appeal of the programme tickets are selling very well and we expect many events to be sold out by the time they take place,' she said.

This weekend the festival also launched a winter series for 2009-2010. Artistic director Ambrose Miller said: 'The five concerts being staged between October and April will give classical music-lovers a year-round opportunity to enjoy performances of the highest calibre in the Guildhall of St George and the Corn Exchange.'

The Three Seasons concert series will begin on October 10 with London Mozart Players and will include a recital by pianist John Lill in December.

For all festival events call the box office at the Corn Exchange on 01553 764864.