THIS panto is up there when it comes to value for money.

In these austere times it all helps families looking for festive fun.

And with this inventive Cinderella comes a new broom, so to speak.

It is the impressive debut production from Regal Entertainments who are renowned for their sterling work in St Helens.

This is a top-notch show on every level.

Emmerdale's Sammy Winward is lovely as Cinders and she finds her Prince - played by a performer with a great singing voice in Andrew Geater.

Keeping the laughter constant is Lewis Devine - a fine all-round performance bringing a lot of energy and originality to the role.

He is like a cross between a young Freddie Starr and Lee Evans while stamping his own personality.

on the madcap proceedings.

The funny, slapstick Ugly sisters are two stars who know their audiences Sarah White (ex-Brookside) and Benidorm's Crissy Rock.

While Lord Dandini is in the safe hands of stalwart panto name - Warren Donnelly.

Samantha Palin in one of the show's sparkling costume and adds extra magic dust as the Fairy Godmother.

Director Chantelle Nolan and writer Jane Joseph are always a formidable duo.

One absolutely fabulous highlight is the 3D segment which is a sheer delight as ghosts, creepy crawlies and other surprises pop out from the screen resulting in shrieks galore.

I have to say I too said a massive 'eek!'

The songs - old and new- are well selected and performed including George Ezra's Shotgun and The Jacksons' I'll Be There.

Cinderella ticks the Christmas boxes.

And it all bodes very well for the festive futures at the welcoming Epstein.

Having a ball!

Four stars.

The show is on until January 2020

Tickets from 08458884411.