Robin Hood And The Babes In The Wood, Pavilion Theatre

FOR fun-filled family pantomime, look no further than this festive frolic. Brimming with laughter and comedy, it zips along involving the audience in plenty of hissing and booing, shouting and cheering along the way.

At the centre of the tomfoolery is Simple Simon, colourfully, energetically and often hilariously played by the very versatile Pete Hillier from children's TV channel CBeebies. He made every moment he was on stage pure magic.

But playing an equally exceptional, pivotal role was Thomas Craig who despite being remembered as the late Tommy Harris in Coronation Street, was utterly convincing as the evil Sheriff of Nottingham. An absolute delight, he threw just the right dash of comedy into his menacing role.

Soap fans will also appreciate the appearance of Neighbours star Anne Charleston, cast as the nanny and good fairy.

The panto also boasts a great dame expertly played (and amusingly dressed) by Douglas Mounce who with Simple Simon plays out some traditional slap-stick that sees eggs and custard pies flying and some run -ins with the ghosties and ghoulies.

There is further hilarity created by bungling kidnappers Bill and Ben, played by Dave Drewitt and Ashley George.

Sarah Louise Day has returned to choreograph and play Maid Marion who with Robin Hood (Edward Baker-Duly) forms a very harmonious partnership.

Juvenile and senior dancers/chorus members, and the delightful Jack and Jill (played by Jared Wakeford and Isabella Sedgwick and shared with Francesca Rodregous and Ben Wat-ton) from Bournemouth's Stage Door School of Dance and Drama all delivered professional first class performances.

Stunning sets, spectacular costumes and lots of happy, catchy, popular songs make this a perfect Christmas outing.