THERE was pantomime magic in the air at the Thwaites Empire Theatre when a child's prize-winning drawing was brought to life.

The new lilac and green character 'Peppermint the Cat' for Christmas show Dick Whittington was revealed to the young costume designer, Gabrielle Faulkner.

In a competition organised by the Lancashire Telegraph, Gabrielle's picture was chosen from over 800 other designs.

Her creation has won her panto tickets for 40 of her friends and teachers at St Peter's RC Primary School, Blackburn, and a £1,000 for the school from panto sponsors Freemasonry in the Community.

Dick Whittington funs from December 9 until January 3. Box office: 01254 685500.