The widow of legendary comedian and national treasure Sir Ken Dodd is set to take centre stage at a festive carol concert at Chester's historic Cathedral.

Anne, Lady Dodd, will join Chester Music Society Choir, Chester Philharmonic Orchestra and the Cathedral's Saturday Singing Club for 'Christmas Crackers'.

Taking place at the Cathedral on Saturday 20 December at 7.30pm, 'Christmas Crackers' promises to be a glittering celebration of music and memories.

A much-loved highlight of Christmas in Chester, it is the only carol concert staged in the city to feature a full orchestra, full choir and a children's choir. 

Presented by Anne, Lady Dodd, the special event will offer a blend of high-quality classical favourites, traditional carols and festive readings, guaranteed to get the audience into the Christmas spirit. 

She said: "I was honoured to be asked to present the musical items and I will be including memories and anecdotes about my life with Sir Ken Dodd."

Chester Music Society Choir and Chester Philharmonic Orchestra will be under the musical direction of acclaimed conductor Graham Jordan Ellis with the Saturday Singing Club being led by senior Chester Cathedral Chorister Tim McLachlan.

Lady Dodd appeared alongside Ken in his stage shows for many years, playing the piano, guitar, flute and singing. The couple were together for 40 years and married just two days before the comedian passed away in 2018 aged 90.

A performer for more than 60 years, Ken Dodd was highly regarded as "the last great music hall entertainer". He was honoured with a Knighthood in the 2017 New Year's Honour List, receiving the honour from Prince William in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace. 

Now the proud custodian of her late husband's comedic legacy, Lady Dodd is one of the Trustees of the Ken Dodd Charitable Foundation, which works to support performing arts charities and organisations.

Earlier this year, Lady Dodd was honoured by Liverpool City Council with the award of Citizen of Honour in recognition of her work with community and charitable organisations across Liverpool and Merseyside.

John Ferrari, chair of Chester Music Society Choir, said: "We are delighted to welcome Anne, Lady Dodd as our guest presenter. 

"Christmas Crackers has become one of the highlights of Christmas in Chester.

"Chester Music Society Choir are extremely grateful to Lady Dodd for waiving her fee in lieu of a donation to a homeless charity that was close to Ken's heart – The Whitechapel Centre in Liverpool."

Full details of the show can be found here, where tickets can be booked online.

Tickets can also be booked in person at the Chester Cathedral box office.