DICK Whittington is heading back to Harden.

More than 20 years after they last performed the popular panto, Harden Players are once again staging the classic Dick Whittington and His Cat.

The show – directed by seasoned Players member Kathryn Sullivan – promises "a delightful blend of slapstick, humour and enchantment".

It tells the story of Dick and his cat Fluffles, who leave Harden to make their fortune in Old London Town where they've heard the streets are paved with gold. But evil King Rat is determined to thwart their plans and prevent Dick from becoming Lord Mayor.

Kathryn says: "It has been fantastic getting back into the director’s chair for another Harden panto.

"The historical Dick Whittington has become more myth than reality over the years, and we have taken more than a few liberties in an effort to transport the audience on a magical journey with our hero and his dancing cat.

"The important thing is that the audience has as much fun as the cast has over the past few months pulling together a show filled with singing, dancing, laughter, booing and more than a few dad-joke groans!"

The 22-strong cast features 14 adults and a children's chorus of eight, with a combination of familiar faces and new talent.

Amanda Petyt takes on the role of Dick, whilst Sarah Whistlecraft stars as Alice Fitzwarren, Jane Fenwick provides comic relief as Idle Jack and Nick Parker is the villainous King Rat.

Joining the group for the first time are Helen Kapil and Dawn Brear, who bring Fluffles the Cat and Fairy Bowbells to life.

The production takes place at Harden Congregational Church, opening on Friday, March 8, at 7.30pm.

Other performances are on Saturday March 9, at 2pm and 6pm; Sunday March 10, at 2pm; Thursday March 14, at 7.30pm; Friday March 15 at 7.30pm, and on Saturday March 16, at 2pm and 6pm.

Tickets are available, priced £6 each, from Harden Post Office or online at hardenplayers.org.uk/tickets

Harden Players – who stage two productions a year – welcome new members, both in performing roles and backstage.

A spokesperson says: "Whether you have a passion for performing or a knack for behind-the-scenes magic, there's a place for you in our friendly society!"

For more about the society and updates, go to facebook.com/hardenplayers

Further information can also be found at hardenplayers.org.uk

Anyone interested in getting involved can email hardenplayers@hotmail.co.uk