THINGS are hotting up for women in York with the arrival of the boys from Blue Watch.

Naked Flame 2 is heading for the Grand Opera House and the city's very own TV hero, James Crossley, is back in the limelight.

James, who was Hunter in ITV's Combat show, Gladiators, plays a surly firefighter in Peter Benedict's comedy all about the sizzling stars of the fire service.

The York-born and bred hunk is treading the boards this summer as Naked Flame 2 tours the country.

Towns which missed out on the original Naked Flame show can catch up as the cast will perform both plays on their travels.

James will also be back on stage this Christmas as Widow Twankey's wayward son, Aladdin, for the Grand Opera House's seasonal pantomime.

But for now theatre-goers looking for some hot stuff should get themselves to Naked Flame 2, which runs from Monday, June 17, to Saturday, June 22.

Tickets cost from £11.50 to £15.50, but early birds can snap up first-night seats for £10.

For more information telephone the box office on 01904 671818.

Updated: 11:29 Friday, May 24, 2002