THE star of this year's Dukes Christmas show has won a prestigious North West theatre prize.

Zoe Henry, currently wooing audiences as Hans Andersen's Ugly Duckling, was presented with the Manchester Evening News best newcomer award this week.

A regular at the Dukes, Zoe has been acting for just two years and was delighted to have won a professional award so early in her career.

"I'm really chuffed," she said. "It came as a complete surprise. I was nominated for two plays I did at the Coliseum for which I had very good parts. There were seven others nominated in the category so to have won is fantastic."

It's been a busy time for Zoe whose most famous role to date was Spider's girlfriend, Log, in Coronation Street.

"She was a bit nasty really," remembers Zoe, "She was supposed to be an out and out vegan but was caught tucking into bacon and eggs. I really enjoyed the part while it lasted."

She also enjoys her time in Lancaster at the Dukes. She recently appeared in "How the Other Half Loves" and is currently quacking her way through the brilliant festive show.

"I love doing Christmas shows. Not every actor enjoys them but I think they're great fun. The Ugly Duckling is proving a big hit with the kids but it's not just for children. My parents are coming to see it next week."

And look out for a film called "Seeing Red" starring Sarah Lancashire over the Christmas holiday. You might just recognise the nanny!

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