THE first pantomime of the year starts tonight – with St Cuthbert’s Amateur Dramatic Society, Darwen presenting Bah Humbug!

A new take on the traditional tale of Scrooge and the ghosts who change his ways, the panto still retains all the traditional elements.

A St Cuthbert’s spokesman said: “We are very much looking forward to performing Bah, Humbug! Our story is based on the novel A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, who was born 200 years ago this year. “This year our cast features a number of our younger members, some of whom are making their debut in pantomime, alongside some very familiar faces too.”

New performers include Karen Clegg as Mrs Fezziwigg and Amelia Gould as the ghost of Christmas future, as well as several of Bob Cratchit’s children.

Bah Humbug! runs until Saturday, at St Chad’s Theatre, St Chad’s Primary School, at 7.30pm, plus a 2.15pm show on Saturday. Call 07804 681778 to book.