THE stars of Derwentside's first professional pantomime take to the stage this weekend.

Jack and the Beanstalk, by Stage Further Productions, opens at the Empire Theatre, in Consett, on Saturday, and runs until December 30.

TV actor Stefan Booth - who has starred in The Bill, William and Mary and Hollyoaks - takes the lead role as Jack Trott, along with youngsters from the Jane Robson and Pauline Cook schools of dance.

The cast, in full costume, made a last stop at the Morrisons store in Berry Edge, Consett, to pick up sweets to throw into the crowd.

Tickets cost £10 from the box office on (01207) 218171.

Published: 16/12/2004