RETIRED finance manager Kenneth Yates can look back to the 1953 coronation of Queen Elizabeth II as a day when he enjoyed his own crowning glory.

For at the age of 13 he was one of 200 choirboys nationwide chosen to sing at the historic occasion in Westminster Abbey.

Seated in a specially created area overlooking the high altar he was treated to a birds-eye view of the proceedings and afterwards was able to touch the magnificent golden coach and pat the horses that drew it through the packed streets of London.

But the youngster, who came from Chesterfield, Derbyshire, had to work hard for the thrill of performing for the new queen.

As head boy chorister at Chesterfield Parish Church he had to be note perfect before being sent to Addington Palace near Croydon for 28 days intensive training. And the £16 charge to take part almost cost him his big chance, but luckily the church, local council and mayor chipped in with donations.

"Our choir master was involved in the Royal School of Church Music which was offered 20 places in the choir and I was asked. My overriding thought when my parents were asked was that £16 was a lot of money, we were not a wealthy family and I didn't think I'd be able to go.

"It was a great honour and a tremendous experience to sing at such an occasion," said Kenneth, who added that he had never seen such a lavish spread as the buffet he and the other choristers tucked into afterwards.

His proud parents bought a television especially to watch the coronation with family and friends, but unfortunately camera restrictions meant there was no filming of the choir.

Kenneth, who moved to Kidderminster 25 years ago and lives in Hardy Avenue, Offmore, basked in a little reflected glory after travelling home from London on his own, when he was invited to sing and recall his big day at various churches.

But several months later his voice broke and although he sang in a skiffle band and operatic society back home his deeper tones "didn't make anything special".

He was presented with a medal and certificate for taking part in the coronation and is the proud owner of one of the stools made specially to seat the country's aristocracy.