WIZARDS, magic lamps and thrilling carpet rides come to Thurrock with the launch of this years pantomime, Aladdin.

The panto once again stars panto stalwart, Damian Williams as Widow Twankey. Other stars include Big Brother 06 favourite Grace Adams-Short as the Slave of the Ring, Morgan Roberts as lovable laundry boy Wishee Washee and CBBC's Ross Mullan as Abanazar.

They are joined by a cast of seasoned professional artists, a chorus of leggy lovelies and a wealth of talented youngsters from the area.

Thameside Theatre Director Mark Allinson said: "The panto will appeal to everyone from 3 to 93! There are goodies,baddies,wizards and magic. It is tremendous fun for christmas."

The show runs from Thursday 6th December through to Sunday 13th January at the Thameside Theatre.

Further information and tickets are available from the Thameside Theatre Box Office on 0845 300 5264.