ORPHAN Annie's canine allergy has cost her a starring role.

Nine-year-old Brittany Knowles, from Darlington, was over the moon when she was picked for the title role in the musical Annie, until a phobia meant she had to miss out.

The Stockton Operatic's production was to be performed in March at Billingham Forum Theatre with Brittany, of the Yarm Afternoon Stagecoach school, in the leading role.

Brittany did not know how to tap dance, but the company was prepared to teach her and everything was going well, until her phobia forced her to quit the part in which she works alongside Sandy the dog.

Her mother tried to get Brittany to befriend neighbours' dogs and visit kennels to try to shake off her phobia, but there was no improvement.

Finally, a decision was made by the Stockton Operatic team and another Annie was found.

Holly Gray, 12, is also from Darlington and a student at Darlington Afternoon Stagecoach school.

She was asked to take over the role of Annie with about six weeks to go.

Holly had previously been playing Tessie, and Brittany has taken over this role.

Trudy Hindmarsh said: "They could not have asked anyone more dedicated to take over the role of Annie than Holly.

"She is an excellent all-round student, who will give everything to get this role perfect in time."

Brittany was disappointed to lose the starring role, but has come to terms with it.

She is looking forward to being Tessie, as long as she doesn't have to pat any dogs.