HARDEN Players' annual panto is back – and going down a treat with audiences.

The event was forced to take a break during the pandemic.

But the Players have returned with a swashbuckling production of Treasure Island, directed by veteran member Haydn Cavanagh.

The 19-strong adult cast includes a mixture of familiar faces and some debutants, who came forward following an appeal for new members last autumn.

There is also a chorus of 12 young people, aged from five upwards.

A spokesperson said: "The highly-anticipated annual family panto is back – and better than ever!

"It is a hilarious swashbuckling tale of pirates, parrots, shipwrecks and treasure, inspired by the classic children’s story.

"One parent commented: 'So many amazing performances. Loved by three generations of my family'. And another audience member described it as 'full of energy, great performances, fantastic costumes, lots of ideas and creative moments'."

The panto, at Harden Congregational Church, opened on Thursday (March 17) and runs until next Saturday (March 26).

Saturday matinee tickets are sold out but seats are available at evening performances, priced £5 for Thursday or £6 Friday/Saturday. Tickets can be obtained from Harden Post Office.

For more details, visit facebook.com/hardenplayers or email hardenplayers@hotmail.co.uk.