THERE was standing room only at the final performance of a sell-out village pantomime.

The Reading Rooms, in Neasham, near Darlington, played host to the venue’s first ever pantomime, Cinders Fella, based very loosely around the traditional fairy tale of Cinderella.

Written by Jim Boylan and Lesley Blundell, the show is a tale of love, greed, and comeuppance, set in the fictional village Sleazesham, on the banks of the River Sleaze.

The pantomime enjoyed four sell-out shows and has been described as a huge success.

One member of the audience said: “It was excellent in all aspects - the actors and actresses, the stage effects, the lighting, the sound effects and particularly the excellent free programme for everyone.

“When one considers the relatively small population of Neasham and its neighbourhood, it was astounding that such a professional and witty panto should be produced.”

Mr Boylan added: “The cast and production team have been truly amazing - sometimes you really don’t know how much talent is living on your doorstep.”

The Reading Rooms have thanked the County Durham Community Foundation, Swale Scaffolding, The Rothley Trust and The Skinners’ Company Lady Neville Charity, who gave funding support for the show.