PANTO stars the Chuckle Brothers cut the ribbon yesterday to open a new-look hospice shop.

Paul and Barry Chuckle, who are playing Wishee and Washee in Aladdin, at Darlington's Civic Theatre, turned up to help staff at the town's refurbished St Teresa's shop celebrate its re-opening.

The comedy duo have supported the hospice in the past and were delighted to be invited to the new shop opening.

Paul said: "We have visited St Teresa's Hospice when we've been to Darlington in the past.

"It is a very special place run by special people and we hope the new venture is a great success."

Aladdin opened on Wednesday at the Civic Theatre and already more than 70 per cent of the tickets have been sold.

The show will be on for seven weeks and remaining tickets can be bought by calling (01325) 486555.