PANTO joker Martin Barrass warmed up for his Christmas performance by dropping in to see some of his biggest fans.

The actor, who will be doing his usual seasonal stint in York Theatre Royal's production of Babbies In The Wood this year, spent a day at Woodthorpe Primary School, York, after opening a new play area.

The new facility, for the reception class, which takes children aged between three and five, includes a climbing frame and slide.

Foundation stage co-ordinator Tesny Morsch said: "Everybody had a wonderful day and Martin stayed with us for the afternoon.

"I think a lot more of the grown-ups recognised him than the children, but he is such a great character that they loved having him here."

Updated: 11:44 Wednesday, November 13, 2002