One of the stars of an upcoming pantomime set to open in Brighton has pulled out of the production.

Mel Giedroyc has withdrawn from her role of the goose in pantomime Mother Goose citing 'personal reasons'.

The former Great British Bake Off host was due to star alongside Sir Ian McKellen and John Bishop.

The production is due to open at the Theatre Royal Brighton on December 3.

In a statement, Mel said: "Due to personal reasons, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the forthcoming production of Mother Goose.

"I am thankful to the producers of the show for being so understanding and wish everyone involved in the production a fantastic tour throughout the UK and Ireland.

"Now, more than ever we all need a bit of joy, and I can't wait to see it myself. I know it is going to be fantastic."

A spokesman from Theatre Royal Brighton said: “Everyone in the show sends love and best wishes to Mel and her family. Casting for the role of The Goose will be announced soon.”