Hewitt's History Files

But it led to many years of fun and fulfilment with the Brighton Theatre Group, a happy band that celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

The group was formed by the late Mavis Ward on May 2, 1968, and Sylvia was delighted to be part of their first show.

"I think Mavis had always wanted to have her own group," said Sylvia. "It was her dream. She had quite a big dance school in Hove and she had quite a few contacts and so started the group.

"We saw the auditions in the paper. I was 13 at the time and having singing lessons. My singing teacher said that I ought to get some stage experience."

And so she did '“ but not before nearly killing herself at the audition. Being a bit nervous, she wanted the loo. She was told to go upstairs and turn first right. Unfortunately, in her nervousness, Sylvia turned first left.

"I opened the door and plummeted down some concrete steps."

For full feature see West Sussex Gazette June 4