A LITTLE puppy who won the hearts of judges to star in Nativity! the musical is set to steal the show.

Cute seven-month-old pooch Winnie will play Cracker, the dog of down-on-his-luck teacher Mr Maddens in the festive favourite.

She showed star quality in auditions and is now ready for the bright lights of the Beacon.

But Winnie has a top support cast alongside her as youngsters from primary schools across Inverclyde join the Greenock Light Opera Club's production.

Together they will bring the much loved musical to life, with the rehearsals now in full swing.

Winnie's proud owner, Greenock student teacher Joanna Crossan, said: "I am so proud of Winnie.

"I am a proper stage mum now and will at the side of the stage to make sure she is okay.

"Winnie is doing very well in rehearsals so far.

"She is a very cheeky dog and full of fun."

Music and drama runs in the family and Joanna is thrilled to see Winnie hog the spotlight.

She said: "I used to go to Kayos when I was younger and my best friend Siân Campbell, who is the musical director for Nativity!, suggested Winnie for the audition."

Keeping all the children - and Winnie - on script will be Notre Dame High music teacher Gerard Gordon, who is taking on the star role of Mr Madden.

He said: "It is going to be great fun, it is a brilliant musical.

"It is fantastic to see kids from all the primary schools involved.

"They all know and love the Nativity! films."

Nativity! runs for five shows in the Beacon from November 6-9.

Performances start at 7.30pm with a matinee on Saturday November 9.

To book tickets call the Beacon box office on 723723.