THE rags-to-riches story of Annie opened at Darlington Civic Theatre last night.

The production, which runs until Saturday, stars Hi-De-Hi's Ruth Madoc as Miss Hannigan.

Sixties icon Mark Wynter and Louise English, one of the original Hill's Angels from the Benny Hill Show, will also be entertaining audiences this week.

The show includes musical favourites, such as It's a Hard Knock Life and Tomorrow.

Tickets are available from the box office on (01325) 486555.