PANTOMIME time is just around the corner at the Grand Opera House, York. Oh yes, it is.

James Crossley, alias Hunter the Gladiator, returned to his home city for the pantomime launch on Thursday, as he looked forward to playing the title role in Aladdin from December 12 to January 5.

James, who now lives in London, has already appeared at the Opera House this year in the summer tour of Naked Flame 2, the fireman comedy with the clothes-shedding finale.

He has starred once before in a Grand Opera House pantomime, playing the romantic lead, Prince Valentine, in Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs in 1999-2000.

"It'll be great to be back in York. I'm really looking forward to spending Christmas there," he said.

The cast also includes Dad's Army star Frank Williams, who will play Widow Twanky; Minster FM morning DJ James Watt, as PC Too Tun gear; Wishee Washee Jon Clegg; Julia Burnett, as the Empress; and Vicky Jones, So-Shy.

Tickets for Aladdin are on sale on 01904 671818.

Pictured: James Crossley, as Aladdin, front centre, with Dad's Army star Frank Williams, back, who will play Widow Twanky; Minster FM morning DJ James Watt, middle row left, in his PC Too Tun gear; Wishee Washee Jon Clegg; Julia Burnett, as the Empress; and Vicky Jones, So-Shy

Updated: 09:52 Saturday, September 14, 2002