Some festive special guests paid a visit to a County Durham children’s ward last week.

Stars from this year’s Gala Theatre pantomime called in at the Treetops Ward, in the University Hospital of North Durham, to spread a little Christmas magic.

The Gala’s panto this year is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, so the kids on the Treetops Ward got to meet Snow White (Lauren Waine), Chester the Jester (Paul Hartley) and Will the Woodsman (Jacob Anderton).

The three stars spent time chatting with the children and their families, including Leyton-John Gibson – aged 7 – from Ferryhill and Nicolas Morgan – aged 11 –from Newton Hall.

Nicolas Morgan
11-year-old Nicolas Morgan meets the panto stars

Paul Hartley – who is also the director of the pantomime – said, “Being in hospital at this time of year can be difficult for anyone, particularly children.”

“It was a privilege to go and visit the youngsters and to have hopefully put a smile on their faces.”

As well as visiting the kids, the pantomime cast also spent time with NHS staff – to say thank you for all the hard work they put in, especially during the Christmas period.

The manager of the Treetops Ward, Katie Pike, said, “It was a real treat for the children and the staff that the pantomime cast took the time to come and visit.”

“It was so thoughtful and really brought the spirit of Christmas to the ward.”

Tickets for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs are still available. Ticket prices start at £10.00 and family tickets can be purchased for £50.00.

To book tickets for – or learn more about – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Durham’s Gala Theatre, please go to www.galadurham.co.uk or telephone the box office on 03000 266 600.

(The featured image shows seven-year-old Leyton-John Gibson with cast members from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.)


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