Burley Players annual panto is clearly somewhat of an institution in this picturesque village, with the locals out in force to support, laugh at and heckle the cast.

I’ve not come across Old King Cole before but it’s a cracking script. Even the gaffs were incorporated and provided additional fun to the proceedings.

The King Coles, young and old were excellent. The more mature version (Clive Gammon) reminded me of Simon Callow, such was his talent.

Dotty Dumpkin (Tim Gaskell), the Dame, was gorgeous in every way and Prince Peski (Paul Berry) and Princess Pariah (Jacki Reynolds) played the pernicious pair with precision.

Young loves, Florian (Lindsay Townson) and Debbie (Alice Culter) proclaimed their undying affection in song and the chorus sang and danced – just as it should be!

While traditional, this panto had a vibrant feel and flowed seamlessly, thanks to sound material, assured direction and a fabulous cast.

Rebecca Case