RETIRED firefighter Jim Jones hopes to set audiences alight with his self-penned pantomime all about Bournemouth.

And he is on the look-out for local actors who want to be involved in it.

A Town is Bourne is due to run at the Pier Theatre later this year as the town celebrates its bicentenary.

Jim, 61, left Dorset Fire Service after suffering a serious back injury but after a painful three-year recovery he has discovered new talents – as a playwright, actor and director.

“I’ve always had an interest in writing poetry and lyrics and came up with the idea for a pantomime,” said Jim.

“I have been singing for many years as well as taking part in amdram productions. Then I started having private acting tuition with Augusta Smith.

“She coached me through my Lamda exams through to my gold medal, which I passed with honours. I went to the U3A drama group for nine years and also joined Bourne Rep.

“I was well and truly bitten by the acting bug and now can’t wait to present A Town Is Bourne as a writer, producer and director.”

The production is booked to take place at Bournemouth’s Pier Theatre from November 22. Now Jim is appealing to individuals and businesses to champion his cause.

“We are seeking financial help to the tune of approximately £10,000 – however, this need not necessarily be in cash.

“Assistance with things like printing of programmes and posters, hair and beauty technicians to help backstage as well as advertising, costume making, scenery building, rehearsal space and many other things would be very helpful.

“After the show has had its run at the Pier Theatre, we will take the panto around some of the local schools with more information about our great town.”

The score is being written by a local composer with some lyrics by Jim, who has the support of Bourne Rep and is now in the process of building a team to help with the project.

Significant parts of the script have been monitored by successful local playwright Craig Norman.

To help kick off the fundraising Tim Sanders has pledged £500 of funding from Discover Dorset Ltd.

Anyone wishing to get involved in any way can contact Jim at james.jones21@btopenworld.com.

* Jim will promote his panto at Bourne Rep’s Arts Festival on Sunday at AFC Bournemouth’s Dean Court stadiumwith script readings by volunteers. Doors open at 1.30pm. All donations will go to the Unicef Haiti Appeal.