Some of the country's brightest opera stars are to sing in Swindon this weekend.

The operatic evening, hosted by Swindon Mayor Derek Benfield, promises to be a delight for all the senses as special guests take to the stage at the Hilton Hotel, in Lydiard Fields, on Sunday.

A champagne reception and four-course dinner will tickle the tastebuds while a cabaret of classical and popular opera is sure to keep the ears tuned in.

An auction of encores at the end means the special favourites will be given a second airing and raise even more cash for the Mayor's charities, which this year are Prospect Hospice and the Swindon Women's Refuge.

Mr Benfield (Lab, Covingham and Nythe) said: "It's going to be a wonderful evening with some extremely talented people taking part.

"We are very fortunate that these special guests are able to perform in Swindon. I'm sure that people will have an evening to remember."

The performers include accompanist David Syrus, who is head of music at the Royal Opera House, in Covent Garden. His CV boasts conducting at Royal Operas such as Verdi's La Traviata and Wagner's Der Fliegende Hollander.

Bass Graeme Broadbent, who has performed with opera great Pavarotti, is experienced in all major London concert halls.

He has also performed at the Proms and throughout Europe.

Mezzo Soprano Elizabeth Sikora has performed a number of roles for the Royal Opera and has sung for the Royal Ballet. Her future plans include her debut with Geneva Opera as Forester's Wife in the Cunning Little Vixen.

Baritone Richard Quine has sung as a tenor for European Chamber Opera, and performed Handel, Bach and Montiverdi in concert.

He has also taught singing at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art and was a singing tutor at RADA for five years.

Soprano Deborah Dales has sung extensively in oratorio and concert throughout the UK.

She is lined up to perform Wagner for English Opera.

The programme includes Showboat's Ol' Man River, by Kern, Toreador's Song, from Bizet's Carmen, and Vissi D'arte from Tosca's Puccini.

Tickets for the concert, which starts at 7pm for 7.30pm, cost £50 and include the meal and entertainment. Contact Erz Turner, Mayor's Parlour, Civic Offices, Swindon, or call 01793 463000 for details.

Alex Emery