STARS from the up and coming panto production Jack and the Beanstalk at the Coronation Hall in Ulverston got in on the act as decorators continued with the facelift for the entrance foyer and staircases at the hall.

The panto team took a turn treading the boards of the scaffolding erected to reach the hall’s high ceilings, Jack tested his Beanstalk-climbing head for heights on the ladders, and Jack and mum Dame Trot gave giant’s henchman Snivel a makeover with some handy paint tins.

It is all part of the last minute preparations for the panto which takes over the Coro stage from January 24 to 27 with a rip-roaring 21st century spin on the traditional tale of rags to riches giant-bashing for Jack and company.

Ulverston Pantomime Society regulars Nicky Diggle (Jack), Bob Needham (Dame Trot) and giant’s henchman Snivel (Denise King) gave the team from Wardgroup Painting & Decorating a little light relief from their work on the Coro, which will be completed later this month.

In the meantime, the Coro is open for business as usual – and for sales of tickets for the 70th anniversary pantomime.

Nicky Diggle said: “The Coronation Hall is a fantastic venue and we consider ourselves fortunate to be able to use it for our annual shows.

“The hall will look better than ever with the refurbished entrance area and we are looking forward to welcoming the crowds of families to the show.”

The exterior of the Coro has also recently been repainted as part of the renovation, programme, with the work has been made possible through a substantial donation of £10,000 from the Friends of the Coronation Hall, support from the Town Lands Trust and the Fisher Foundation together with a major private donation.

Judy Pickthall is chair of Ulverston Community Enterprises which took over the running of the hall and Ulverston markets from South Lakeland District Council in August 2016.

She said: “We are really looking forward to the current work being completed and new carpets laid to provide an exciting start to what will be a very busy year for the Coro, with the programme of entertainment continuing to expand, and still more involvement with local groups to fulfil its vital role as a community hub.”

l Box office: 01229-587140.