THE Italian opera arrived in town as a group of young singers took to the stage at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon.

They had the chance to sing in the Puccini opera La Boheme last night.

Twelve members of the Kentwood Junior Choir appeared in the chorus in the classic tale of love and loss.

The singers were coached by Sheila Harrod, musical director and founder of Kentwood, Rebeccca Jankinson and Helen Dixon, who is teaching the youngsters Italian.

La Boheme is set in 1840's Paris and revolves around the lives of four young students struggling to make ends meet. It is presented by Opus 1 Music Limited, which was launched two years ago.

David Heathcote, artistic director of the opera company, was thrilled to have the support of the Swindon choir.

It was the first time they have been involved in professional opera and have been enjoying every minute.

The youngsters are Alice Dixon, nine, Lucia Szczepankek, 12, Katy Embling, 14, Franky Wicks, 14, Amanda Downes, 13, Catherine Forty, 13, Natasha Marvell, 12, Helen Mack 13, Lauren Durrant, 12, Georgia Pennock, nine, Gemma Hayes, 16 and Sophie Goldsworthy, 12.