COMEDIAN Mark Rough is to star in a major panto production at the world famous City Varieties in Leeds.

Mark, aged 39, from Leigh will play the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood and the Babes In The Wood.

To celebrate his first panto Mark is embarking on a series of charity shows to help raise money.

He explained: "I am honoured to have been given the role at City Varieties.

"So many of British comics have performed in panto over the years and for me it's a natural progression from my time on the comedy circuit to the more mainstream audiences I play to these days.

"However because rehearsals take place in Leeds every day throughout November I've had to postpone gigs all over the UK because of the travelling, so I thought it would be the ideal opportunity to play locally and raise some money for charities in my adopted home town."

Mark will play locally for a third of his usual fee.

"I have played two fund raising shows in Leigh since moving here last year and both were very well attended. Leigh crowds are warm and friendly and don't mind having a laugh at themselves...a perfect audience!"

Any pub or club wanting to take advantage of Mark's offer should call 07788 906391.