Hi-ho-hi-ho! Its off to rehearsals we go

It is being held at The Charlton School, Wellington, from Monday to February 21. Performances begin at 7.30pm each evening and there is a 2.30pm matinee on the Saturday.

The Crown Players have been putting on an annual charity pantomime for more than 40 years.

This year, every penny from the tickets sales is going to the charity appeal which helps to keep the hospice up and running.

Julie Link, secretary for the group, said: "Last year we were delighted to be able to donate £10,500 to the Severn Hospice who are our chosen charity again this year. Our aim is to better the amount we gave last year if at all possible but we will still be happy with anything we are able to give as every penny counts.

"Rehearsals for the show have been great fun, especially watching the younger members of the group who are playing out seven dwarfs develop their confidence, as this is the first time most of them have had a speaking part in the cast."

Amanda Nuttall plays Snow White.

Ms Link added: "We have got children in the group from age three and we have a lady that is 74, so it is quite a range. All the actors and actresses are amateurs and volunteers, they love it. They are really looking forward to it, the excitement is building – we are just waiting for the costumes and the make-up now to finish off the preparations.

"The best way of raising money is our annual play. We name a different charity every couple of years.

"We have raised more than £90,000 since 1993 for charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support and Hope House."

Tickets cost £6.50 for adults and £3.50 for children. For concessions call Julie Evans on (01952) 240621 or 07538 035737, or email thecrownplayers@gmail.com

Group discounts are being offered for the opening night on Monday.