MUSICAL acts and performers across the town are honing their performances ahead of a Christmas extravaganza event at St John’s Church on Whitbourne Avenue.

The sweet sound of festive music from a variety of different performers will sing out in a number of different styles, with a different performer taking to the stage every 30 minutes during the church’s Christmas Festival held in partnership with Swindon Restore.

The event will be staged at the church on Friday, December 4 from noon until 7pm.

Along with traditional carols there will be performances from local community choirs, school choirs, Nepalese singers and even performances from bell ringers to ensure the Christmas season is brought in in festive style.

Lending her vocal talents to the event will be Children In Need charity single singer Karah Scott, who recorded her very own version of Eartha Kitt’s hit Santa Baby at a farm in Purton which she will be performing live on the day.

Organiser of the event Martina Lewis said she was looking forward to what would once again be a very busy day at the church filled with Christmas spirit.

She said: “During the day the Christmas tree will be decorated by people at the festival – not just with lights, but with CDs. People will be writing Christmas prayers and messages on the CDs. At 6pm the Reverend Linda Fletcher will bless the tree.”

Among those lending their musical talents to the day will be Oak Tree Primary School choir, Holy Family school choir, Red Roosters, Shani Cherry, the United Christian Choir, Hotsteppers, the Nepalese Church choir and Wroughton Bell Ringers.

There will also be a number of culinary treats on offer throughout the afternoon, including hot German waffles and mulled wine, while there will be a table top sale for those last minute Christmas craft gift ideas.

Martina added: “Santa will also be there in his grotto and we will have a nativity stable. Swindon 105 fm will make two broadcasts from the event, one from 1pm until 2pm and another from 3pm until 4pm. Shirley came last year and loved it so said she would come again this year and broadcast live.

“We will also be offering quiet prayer for those people who would like it.”

For more information contact Martina Lewis on 07806227678.