TWO dozen young Inverclyde performers are treading the boards alongside stars of hit TV show Still Game in a Greenock panto, which starts today.

Aspiring actors from across the district are taking to the stage in Sleeping Beauty at the Beacon Arts Centre alongside Jane McCarry and Mark Cox, aka Craiglang pensioners Isa and Tam from the acclaimed Scottish sitcom.

The production also features popular pair Lee Samuel and panto dame Jimmy Chisholm.

A total of 24 Inverclyde schoolchildren will take to the stage during the three-week run spread over three groups of eight and actress Jane, who is also known for playing Granny Murray in children's show Me Too!, says they are a real credit to their families and the area.

She said: "Some have been in it before and some are new to it.

"They are always really well-behaved and so enthusiastic - and probably more professional than us!

"The chaperones, who help look after them, are brilliant as well, they deserve a special mention.

"Panto is such good fun. "We're on until December 31 so get your tickets now because the shows are selling out."

Sleeping Beauty kicked off this morning with a performance at 10am is followed by a show at 7pm tonight.

Actor Lee, who is back at the Greenock venue for the fourth consecutive year, said: "The children are absolutely tremendous. "They're always great in Inverclyde, a good bunch of kids who work really hard."

There are two performances daily, except on December 10, 17, 25 and 26, right through until Hogmanay.

The panto is produced by Imagine Theatre, led by company manager Johnny Palmer, in partnership with the Beacon.

To book tickets, visit beaconartscentre.co.uk or call the box office on 723723.