BOSSES at Worcester's Swan Theatre are searching for a new Fairy Stinkerbell after veteran Carry On actress Liz Fraser suddenly pulled out of their Christmas pantomime.

Last week, Ms Fraser -

who has appeared in more than 60 films - said how much she was looking forward to performing in Jack And The Beanstalk.

"I'm hoping a stint back in theatre will help me realise I am good on stage," she said.

But yesterday morning the theatre announced she had suddenly pulled out - leaving them searching frantically for a last-minute stand-in.

Her agent confirmed the news, adding it was due to "personal circumstances" and declining to comment further.

Now theatre bosses are remaining upbeat and are on the look-out for a new star to bill the show.

Chris Jaeger, director of Huntingdon Arts, which runs the Swan, said: "We're very disappointed that Liz Fraser won't be joining us this year in our pantomime and wish her all the best.

"We have a great cast behind this year's panto and are looking at a number of exciting different options for replacing Liz and hope to be able to make an announcement very soon, so watch this space."

The confirmed cast of the panto will include some familiar faces to Worcester, including Daniel Whitley (as Simple Simon), Sarah-Jane Bourne (playing Jill) and Paul Tate (Dame Trott), all of whom appeared in panto at the theatre last year.