A popular pantomime could be cancelled because of the lack of a Dame.

Shinfield Players annual fun filled pantomime will not be complete without the Dame in their portrayal of Mother Goose.

But the amateur dramatics group that has its own theatre on Whitley Wood Lane, Shinfield, have no man available to play the part.

A call has now gone out to a man in the town willing to don a funny wig, and put on a busty outfit to be the comic foil in the traditional Christmas play.

Spokesman for Shinfield Players Martin Butler said it would be a shame if they had to cancel because they were unable to get an actor for the part.

He said: "No Dame could mean no panto which has been for many years just the tonic for families to go to after the highs of Christmas into the lows of

January.

"With no Dame in sight and the Goose on the Loose with no mother to tame it the dilemma needs to be solved."

Rehearsals are already under way for Mother Goose, which will be performed on January 15, 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24.

Mr Butler said: "So any budding male actors wanting to find their feminine side this could be your ideal chance. If you have the commitment, drive and enthusiasm to fulfill this role and fit into a lovely fetching dress and wig please get in contact."

The Dame is a British pantomime tradition that sees a man portraying a woman to get laughs. Anyone intereste should contact martin@shinfieldplayers.org.uk.