After 50 golden years of performing with the Kentwood Show Choir, founder and musical director Sheila Harrod says she still doesn’t feel like retiring.

“I see myself never retiring because I have the same passion for music as when I was 17,’’ she said. “I am so lucky it is my living.”

Sheila has to start her Christmas early, getting her singers into shape for the ever popular Kentwood Christmas Cracker, which this year will be held on Sunday, November 23, at the Wyvern Theatre.

“All our friends in Swindon say the Cracker is the start to their Christmas,” said Sheila.

And the singing teacher has stuffed her Christmas stocking full of treats for the show, including the Aldbourne Band as special guests and West End musical stalwart Paul Maguire with his band.

The Kentwood Cracker has a Yuletide feel from the moment the audience steps inside the foyer, as mince pies and punch are on offer.

For the past two years Tesco has kindly donated 1,200 mincepies, but this year Sheila is sending out an appeal to all supermarkets in Swindon to help her out with festive goodies.

The Kentwood Show Choir will be getting everyone in the festive mood by singing all the popular Christmas numbers and the Junior Choir will also be showcasing their songs with choreography by Gemma Short, principal of the Gemma Short School of Dancing.

This has been a truly golden year for Sheila and the choir, with jazz nights, showcases and concerts, including the special commemorative May celebration called 50 Glorious Years.

And the Kentwood Kids are not going to be left out of the fun, bringing their own Christmas magic to the Arts Centre in Devizes Road, Old Town on Saturday, December 20.

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas,” said Sheila.

This year the Kentwood Cracker is having a double dose of festive fare performing at 4pm and again at 8pm, and tickets are being snapped up fast.

Tickets are £12 from the box office on 01793 524481 or visit swindontheatres.co.uk.

– Flicky Harrison