THE ruler of the King's navy, in the guise of singer Mark Siney, arrived in full costume to help launch the arts season for Darlington's Civic Theatre and Arts Centre.

Mark, and Carl Rosa Opera Company soprano Lesley Cox sang extracts from HMS Pinafore, which runs at the Civic from September 16 to 20.

Their visit highlighted the news that actor Timothy West is making his operatic directing debut with the production, which stars former Doctor Who performer Colin Baker.

The autumn season programme is being boosted by the news that early ticket sales for pantomime Goldilocks And The Three Bears, starring Lisa Riley, are the highest the current management can remember. The panto dates are December 4 to January 18.

Ken Dodd's annual sell-out visit, from October 16 to 18, is already reported to be heading for black market ticket status, according to Darlington Arts' marketing manager Nick Bag-shaw.

He said: "News that Bob Hope is no longer with us reminds us of Ken Dodd's gold-plated talent."

Also coming to the theatre during will be The Roy Orbison Story, The Rocky Horror Show and The Nutcracker Suite.

The Arts Centre is planning a packed programme of entertainment, with Jane Eyre and Lear's Daughters part of the season. The fastest-selling tickets at the centre are for comics Dave Gorman and Al "Pub Landlord" Murray.

For further box office information about the shows, ring (01325) 486555.