THEY spent nearly three decades quite literally toiling behind the scenes, bringing magical theatre productions to life across the region, yet remaining in the shadows – until now.

As part of our Christmas Wish appeal, the spotlight has finally been turned on Jean and Dennis Wyatt’s incredible achievements and devotion to Swindon’s art scene.

The elderly couple, who are responsible for the sets, props and stage management of nearly 70 shows across Swindon, Royal Wootton Bassett and Cirencester, were nominated by their friend Linda Jarmey.

She hoped to bring the Wyatts, who are now virtually housebound due to Dennis’s ill health, the recognition they deserve for their creative input and commitment to the arts.

Earlier this month, the couple were interviewed by our writer Barrie Hudson. Their story appears in today’s edition of the Adver.

“Since getting to know and love them I have heard how they gave virtually all of their spare time over many years to behind the scenes work at the Wootton Bassett and Swindon theatres,” said Linda, 64, of Royal Wotton Bassett.

“Dennis was an extremely creative and capable gentleman who used his skills to make props and build scenery whilst Jean made sure that the props, costumes and make up were historically accurate for the productions.

“These happy days, while long gone, are often spoken about with great affection. But sadly Dennis is now very frail and suffers from Age Related Macular Degeneration and has to be cared for 24/7 by his devoted wife Jean, who is herself 90.

“Because of this, Dennis is no longer able to do all the practical things he loved to do. Despite all this he remains one of the nicest, gentlest men I have ever had the privilege to know.”

She added: “Jean is a lovely lady too and loves to reminisce about their life with the theatres. I have heard the same stories many times and could probably recite them all but I always listen with interest as I know how much these days meant to them both.”

The idea for an article dedicated to their achievements was just the thing, she said. “I can just see and hear her excitement, reading it out to Dennis and telling everyone about it,” she said.

The nomination came as a complete surprise to the publicity-shy couple, who will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary next spring.

“It was out of the blue,” said Jean, of Old Walcot.

“All these years we were behind the scenes. It would be nice if people saw this in the paper and we got letters from them saying ‘We remember you’.

“We did 69 shows in 28 years and I loved every minute of it; setting it and making it all perfect.

"You’ve got to be precise on the stage.”