STUDENTS are setting sail on a festive adventure as panto season arrives at Stockton Riverside College.

Performing Arts students are bringing their own version of family favourite Dick Whittington to the college's stage.

To launch the show some of the story's best-loved characters headed over to Stockton’s HM Bark Endeavour to get a feel for life on the ocean waves.

“A visit to Captain Cook’s ship seemed the perfect way to help get our students into character,” said course leader Sonya Curle.

The students have put together their own version of the famous tale, with the story seeing the characters set sail for a faraway island.

The show has been put together and performed by 31 of the college's acting students.

Ms Curle said: "The course leader said: “We expect a lot out of our students.

"They take responsibility not only for the performance side but also the production, including costumes, lighting, set design, stage management and direction.”

Make-up for the show is being provided by the college's production arts make-up students.

Dick Whittington will be performed at Stockton Riverside College’s Margaret Armstrong Theatre on Wednesday December 16 and Thursday December 17th, with both matinee and evening performances.

Tickets are £8 adults and £5 concessions (school group booking rates are also available). Bookings are available through the college’s show Facebook page, SRC Theatre Shows or from the College box office.