DOZY the dwarf turned rather grumpy after he was caught short during the night - and ended up fracturing his collarbone.

John Ghavam, who has been appearing in the smash-hit panto Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, in Darlington, got up to answer a call of nature but could not reach the light switch.

He clambered onto a suitcase in his darkened digs to extend his reach but slipped and came crashing to the ground. Despite being in pain, Mr Ghavam knew the show must go on, so next morning made his way to the Civic Theatre.

Ever the professional, he struggled into his Dozy costume, but when the rest of the cast realised how much pain he was in they sent for a doctor.

Theatre company director Steve Luck said: "He winced with pain as he was getting into his costume so we got someone to look at him.

"He was told he had fractured his collarbone and would have to rest up.

"We got an understudy to stand in so Snow White has had all her seven dwarves for each performance.

"John is still on the pay roll and we hope to have him back in the show after Christmas."

Mr Luck added: "I know he is keen to come back if he is feeling well and I am sure the audiences will welcome him back on stage."

Last night, bashful Mr Ghavam was unavailable for comment as he recuperated at home down South.

With not enough dwarves to make up the full Snow White compliment in the production, the rest are played by children.

The panto also stars husband and wife Linda Lusardi and Sam Kane, and features Sooty.