VETERAN ventriloquist Keith Harris has withdrawn from the Hull New Theatre pantomime to continue with his on-going hospital treatment.

Additional casting is now in place for Aladdin, in the form of chaotic comedy duo The Grumbleweeds in the roles of the Chinese Policemen, while David Witts, alias heartthrob Joey Branning in EastEnders, will play the Genie of the Lamp in his Hull panto debut.

Sherrie Hewson, from the Carry On films, the ITV sitcom Benidorm and chat show Loose Women, has been announced already for the villainous part of Empress Savage.

"I have no doubt that this will be our most spectacular New Theatre panto yet," says executive producer Jonathan Kiley. "The magical adventure story of Aladdin, the magic lamp, the Genie, a flying carpet and, of course, his hilarious mother Widow Twankey, will be brought to life in a show that will appeal to audiences of all ages.”

Tickets for this Qdos Entertainment show are on sale at £17.50 to £24.50 on 01482 300300, at hullcc.gov.uk/hullnewtheatre or in person at the Hull City Hall box office, in Little Queen Street, and the Wilson Centre, in Alfred Gelder Street.