HE may be one of the stars of Cinderella, but pantomime actor Darren Southworth fears he could be acting out a more traditional Christmas story this year after finding no room at the inn.

Darren, 39, is set to appear as one of the ugly sisters in the Cliffs Pavilion panto this festive season and will temporarily move from his home in Bolton, Lancashire to play the part.

But he is struggling to find somewhere to stay locally during his five week stint on stage at the theatre, in Station Road, Westcliff, alongside comedian Joe Pasquale as Buttons.

He said: "I have rung around and a lot of people are full already.

"I desperately need some one to help home an ugly sister this Christmas."

It is the first panto role Darren has performed in for ten years and he has recently been appearing on the West End stage in the Monty Python musical Spamalot.

He added: "I am really looking forward to it.

"It was the first time I had been to Southend when I came for the panto launch in July and I loved the fact the theatre was right next to the sea.

"It would be great to get somewhere to stay close by and within walking distance as I don't drive."

If you can help Darren find a home this Christmas, call Emma Harley, at the Cliffs, on 01702 390472 or e-mail emmah@southendtheatres.org.uk