Composer Liz Lane has been commissioned to write a new work to help commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Gloucestershire born Edward Jenner (1749-1823).

Jenner is regarded as the 'pioneer of vaccination' — after his research into its use in combating smallpox.

In his time, smallpox killed around 10% of the population, more in densely populated areas, but through his work in noting that milkmaids were generally immune to the disease, he postulated that inoculation with cowpox would give people protection.

Test patient

In 1796 his first 'test-patient' was James Phipps, the eight-year-old son of his gardener. He later inoculated his own baby son. His success saw him become one of the most celebrated scientists of the era, and he was granted £30,000 in recognition of his work by Parliament.

Liz's work will be part of extensive celebrations that will also include a heritage trail and air balloon launch.

Community opera

A special highlight will be an outdoor performance of a community opera within the gardens of Dr Jenner's House, Museum and Garden in Berkeley in Gloucestershire where he lived most of his life.

The launch takes place on 17th May and will involve a quintet from City of Bristol Band, along with local community voices and flautist Nicola Woodward, led by conductor Ian Holmes.