IT'S that time of year again and this week Southend's Cliffs Pavilion launched its 2019 panto - once again featuring Thurrock's Ashley Banjo and the Diversity dance group.

It was a welcome return this year for the 2009 Britain's Got Talent winner and a refreshing change to see Robin Hood and The Merry Men (and women) as this year's panto.

Showing their usual talents, athleticism and acrobatics they stole the show alongside Daniel Boys who was totally nasty as the sheriff of Nottingham.

With most of the comedy coming in the form of Simple Simon (Kev Orkian), who is also an accomplished pianist, there was a heart stopping routine including Ashley, Jordan and Perri of Diversity.

But it wouldn't be a Christmas panto without a beautiful heroine (Lauren Chia) and the aid of a magic fairy (Gina Murray).

With recognisable songs being adapted to tell the story, the ensemble dancers were fantastic, the extra children so cute, the stage amazing and of course plenty of audience participation.

Featuring pyrotechnics and a flying bat this show was worthy of being performed in the West End and just goes to show that a panto at Christmas is fun for all ages.

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