RENOWNED fashion, costume and set designer Paul Shriek has been announced as the winner for Best Costume Design in The Great British Pantomime Awards 2018 in a star studded event in London hosted by Christopher Biggins.

Paul, who has been the creative force behind the costume and stage designs for South Shields’ Customs House pantomime for nine seasons, faced tough competition from four other nominees in his category, including the mighty force of The London Palladium.

Shriek works with long-time collaborator Matt Fox; their company Fox and Shriek is committed to creating visually stunning, unique and exciting theatrical productions.

After finding out he was the unanimous judges’ choice, Paul said: “I feel like Jack who has climbed a very tall beanstalk and won the goose who has laid the golden egg. To represent The Customs House, the little panto with the big heart and bring home this award is both very humbling and extremely gratifying for a lad from Ashington who makes frocks for a living.

“Thank you to my mam and dad Trudi and George for giving me a real grounding in Panto illusion – and for their love and support.”

The Great British Pantomime Awards recognise and celebrate the great effort that goes into the yearly pantomime season throughout the UK. There are over 20 awards in total, including: Best Comic, Best Male and Female Baddie, Best Ensemble as well as awards for Lighting, Design and Direction.