THE world of amateur theatre has turned full circle for 21-year-old Tim Fairhurst - thanks to a pantomime cat.

It was as an 11-year-old that Tim first played the cat in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs - the Christmas pantomime produced by the Glenholme Theatre Club at Crook.

Now, after ten years, he is "very proud" to be directing the same pantomime, which is being staged at the town's Civic Hall this Christmas.

Tim, who is studying electronics, said: "It is a really odd coincidence that my very first show as a director should be the same pantomime I played the cat in so many years ago."

The cat in the latest production will be played by six-year-old Megan Graham, of Crook.

Tim said: "I'm certain she will be better in the role than me because I'm directing her."

Since he first joined the theatre club, one of the last to survive in County Durham, Tim has appeared in many productions.

At one stage, he even thought of making the theatre his career, but settled instead on electronics and computers.

He said: "I think the attraction of amateur theatre has got a lot to do with the social side of life. There is always plenty of fun and a good bit of crack around."

l The Glenholme Theatre Club is always looking for new members. Anyone interested in joining the club can contact Bernard Lally on (01388) 762436.