OLDHAM Coliseum panto performers brought a real GLO to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.

The stars of Dick Whittington visited patients and staff bringing with them songs, laughter and festive cheer.

On stage Dame Saucy Sarah Suet - played by Fine Time Fontayne - and panto villain King Rat - played by Simoen Truby - are arch enemies but all their differences were forgotten as they spread happiness and the season of goodwill.

Dick Whittington (Nina Shadi) also embarked on the journey to Dr Kershaw’s along with characters Alice Fitzwarren (Shorelle Hepkin), Sir Ivo Fitzwarren (Ralph Birtwell), Captain Bonny (Liz Carney), Idle Billy Suet (Richard J Fletcher) and Tommy the Cat (Miley Rose).

And they were joined by representatives from the Give Local Oldham campaign which sees six local charities joining fundraising forces to generate cash to improve the lives of those across the borough.

Panto audiences have the opportunity to donate to the wonderful cause - which is supporting Dr Kershaw’s, Action Oldham Fund, Kingfisher Special School, Maggie’s Oldham, Madhlo and Oldham Coliseum Theatre - by making donations in collection buckets in the Coliseum foyer at every performance until the show finishes on January 13.

After chatting and joking with hospice day patients, the cast burst into song before visiting resident patients and their families.

For 37-year-old day patient Donna Edwards, who has battled two brain tumours, the meet and greet was a very special treat.

“I’ve been going to the Coliseum pantomime since I was a child and I’ve already seen it this year so it was lovely to meet the cast.

“It was fantastic to see them and the make-up and costumes are amazing. Their visit really cheered me up.”

King Rat, aka Simeon, said: “For the cast this was a lovely opportunity to bring a bit of brightness into the hospice and it’s just wonderful to put smiles on people’s faces.

“Many of the people here have seen the panto so it’s nice for to us to meet them.”