FINAL preparations are being made for West Howe’s first-ever community pantomime.

The original show – Once Upon a Time in West Howe – takes to the stage at the Henry Brown Youth Centre on Saturday, with performances at 2pm and 7pm.

Those involved have been working hard on the project since early this year and it is all part of trying to garner community spirit and a feel-good atmosphere in the Bournemouth suburb.

Residents were invited to get involved with every aspect of the production, from script-writing to acting.

Diane Humphries, who is producing and acting in the show, said: “We’ve received grant money now through the Health Lottery to go towards some of the props and also from the Lottery Awards for All.”

She said that meant that the panto – which will also be performed on Saturday, January 17 – won’t be a one-off, with plans for a summer show and another pantomime next year.

Diane added: “It’s an original story based on the traditional panto theme of people going on a journey. You’ve got a good fairy and the traditional baddies and the giant up the beanstalk, but it’s all set against the background of West Howe.”

Those involved have done everything from making costumes to designing the set and they will see their efforts come to fruition on Saturday.

Tickets, from the Inspiring Change shop, westhowe.net, are £3 for adults and £2 for children.