PANTO fever is hotting up in Preston as the city's Charter Theatre prepares to stage Aladdin as this year's seasonal show with sponsorship from The Citizen.

With comedy, music, colourful costumes and sets as well as former Coronation Street actor Scott Wright, who played mechanic Sam Kingston in the hit soap, the family classic promises to be a winner.

And with the backing of your favourite weekly paper, it can't go wrong!

Gill Ellis, editor of The Preston and Leyland Citizen, said: "The panto in Preston is a popular part of the Christmas celebrations and families look forward to it every year.

"We are proud to be sponsoring this year's show together with the Fishergate Shopping Centre."

Heart-throb Scott, who was nominated for the Most Popular Newcomer award at the 2001 National Television Awards and shot to fame as the colourful grease monkey in Corrie, takes on a lead role as the Sultan's Guard.

As well as playing the much-loved boyfriend of Toyah Battersby, he also moonlighted as the street's stripper, The Snake, setting temperatures racing in the Rovers Return.

"My panto' character is a big softy really," said Scott. "It's comedy and he gets the laughs. It's nice to get an audience response."

Unlike traditional pantomimes, this year's show will include chart music and plenty of special effects.

Marketing manager, Paul Humphreys, said: "It's a new venture for the Charter Theatre. The production is a bit more modern than anything we've done in previous years.

"We're all very excited about it. The music is very modern and there are some really good special effects in the show including a flying carpet.

"It's still a panto', but bringing it into the modern age, and we're very pleased that The Citizen has come on board."

Also starring in the panto is Radio Lancashire presenter Sally Naden, as slave of the ring, while actor Colin Kilbride plays Aladdin.

Preston's Fishergate Shopping Centre, Preston, is also sponsoring the pantomime. Spokesman for the centre, Nikki Dibb, said: "We are delighted to be sponsoring Aladdin along with The Citizen newspaper.

"Fishergate Shopping Centre will always endeavour to support local activities and the panto which is a great draw for Preston is an ideal opportunity."

The panto runs from December 11 to January 11. For information and ticket prices call 01772 258858.