A FORMER Coronation Street star will take centre stage in Hartlepool’s first professional pantomime.

After retiring from the cobbles last year, actor Terence Maynard – who played Tony Stewart in the ITV soap – is about to star in Aladdin.

The family-friendly, traditional pantomime will be staged at Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre throughout the festive season.

Hartlepool Council and Elite Pantomimes have collaborated to ensure residents can enjoy the town’s first professional panto.

Performances begin on Friday, December 16 and will continue until Wednesday, December 28.

There will be no performance on Christmas Day and there will be a relaxed performance for those with autism, learning disabilities or communication and sensory disorders on Monday, December 19 at 2.30pm.

Tickets are £14 for adults, £12 for children or £47 for a family.

For more information or to book, visit hartlepooltownhalltheatre.com.