THE Christmas count-down is getting under way, and to prove it, the stars of this year's Malvern Theatres panto, Cinderella, came to town for early rehearsals.

Among them were Cinders herself, Gemma Naylor, who will be making her second visit this year to the Festival Theatre, having appeared in Jackie - The Musical in June.

Gemma, who is currently touring the UK in the musical Sunset Boulevard, has played Princess Jasmine in panto at Bath and says she is looking forward to playing the leading role this year and having the chance to see more of Malvern.

Another star of the show is Alison Hammond, playing the Fairy Godmother, who is well known for her appearances on ITV’s This Morning, Big Brother and Strictly Come Dancing.

Playing Baron Hardup will be the hugely experienced Paul Hawkyard, who has appeared in TV productions such as The Last Detective, The Coroner, Holby City and Doctors, and also had a spell in Coronation Street.

He has also appeared regularly on CBeebies’ Old Jack’s Boat, while on the musical front he has been in Les Miserables.

Other cast members visiting the theatre were Ben Harlow, who will play Prince Charming, and one of the Ugly Sisters, Wezley Sebastian.

The role of Buttons will be played by comedy star, Mark James who is definitely an all-rounder with his background of actor, comedian and magician.

Cinderella will be on at Malvern Theatres, Grange Road from December 14 through to January 7, 2018.

Further details of show times can be found on the theatre website at malvern-theatres.co.uk or by calling the box office on 01684 892277.