COMING to Blackpool is always a holiday for Hi De Hi's Ruth Madoc.

And the popular Welsh actress is more than happy to be back on stage at her favourite theatre in the latest Agatha Christie mystery from Ian Dickens Productions.

"I love the Grand Theatre -- it's run so well," said Ruth. "And I love the spoken word so plays are perfect for me.

"And the good thing about A Murder Is Announced, as with all Agatha Christie tales, is that it's a damn good yarn.

"Also, audiences like what they know and feel comfortable with."

Ruth takes the role of Miss Blacklock whose country cottage becomes the centre of a murder inquiry after an announcement in the local newspaper. "I can't tell you too much about her as it would give too much away," added Ruth. "But she's a wonderful role and she takes the audience on a very long journey."

Ruth stars alongside former Eastenders' actors Leila Birch (Teresa Di Marco) and Andrew Lynford (Simon Raymond) in the classic Christie puzzle.

A Murder Is Announced runs at Blackpool Grand Theatre from January 22 at 8pm then to January 27 at 7.30pm with Thursday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. For tickets at £12.50 and further details call the box office on (01253) 290190.