A HEADTEACHER will take to the stage for panto season.

Bob Woodman, headteacher at Shoreham Beach Primary School in Shingle Road, is playing Sapphire the blue fairy who helps wooden puppet Pinocchio in his quest to become a real boy.

Miss Woodman, of Littlehampton, will perform in the role with the Southwick Players.

She has been involved in stage productions from an early age, appeared with several south coast theatre companies and has worked as a director.

A spokeswoman for the organisation said: "Southwick Players is delighted to present a traditional pantomime – the story of Pinocchio – billed as good family fun with no strings attached.

"Expect everything theatrical in this magical and enchanting tale including singing, dancing, comedy, verse, slapstick, audience participation heroes and villains and a larger than life dame."

Pinocchio opens at The Barn Theatre, Southwick Street, Southwick with a matinee performance on December 31 and runs until January 7.

There are four matinées, with various start times. Evening shows begin at 7.30pm. Tickets are available now from the box office priced at £9 to £12. Call 01273 597094 or book online at southwickplayers.org.uk.