A FLINTSHIRE theatre group is gearing up for its annual Christmas pantomime.

Following on from the success of Pull The Other One back in June, panto preparations are well under way at Hawkesbury Little Theatre in Buckley.

And this year's production is not to be missed - being Disney classic Sleeping Beauty and rehearsals are in full swing.

Cathy Mayers-Jones, group member, said: "We all enjoy panto so much and rehearsals are great fun. There's a real sense of teamwork and we're a close knit group and all work really well together.

"We all really enjoy Christmas panto each year. This year is no different and we're all really excited. We are always on the lookout for members for future performances though."

Performances run from Wednesday November 27 until Sunday December 8.

Opening night tickets are all £6.

All other performances are £8 for adults and £7 for concessions.

As usual, at every performance, Father Christmas will make an appearance with a gift for each child.

Tickets available from Sheila Williams in Buckley Precinct, or from Peter Watkin on 07765 453333.

The Leader:

With the club - a registered charity for 50 years - having undertaken about £20,000 of improvements in the last three years - including lighting and structural works - the club is keen to see bigger audiences as well as potential new cast members.

Cathy added: "The theatre has had some internal renovations to the stage area over the last few weeks and is looking fantastic. Last year virtually every pantomime performance was a sell out so don't leave it too late if you want to come along. Tickets are selling well already and every year people come back to see our panto. We've noticed that people seem to be travelling from further afield now to come and see us. Our reputation for putting on a fantastic, good value-for-money, professional panto has brought audiences in from North Wales, the Wirral and Chester the last couple of years.

"This is fantastic news for the club as our reputation continues to grow, and it means we can invest more into new lighting, costumes and equipment for the club."

Hawkesbury Little Theatre can be found on Mill Lane in Buckley, next to Elfed High School, CH7 3HA.

Follow the group on Facebook and Instagram under Hawkesbury Little Theatre and Hawkesbury Panto.