PANTOMIME star Berwick Kaler yesterday vowed that his new show will go on, despite suffering a health scare last week.

The 58-year-old was taken to hospital with severe stomach pains on the day after Hobson's Choice opened at York Theatre Royal.

He said the stress of playing a big role, combined with the loss of his beloved nine-year-old pet dog, Jessie, might have played a part in his ill-health.

But he said he was determined to return to the show's lead role as soon as possible.

He said: "It really is a fantastic show. "I am an old pro and the show goes on. This is the first time in my life this has happened.

"I am so disappointed this has happened. I am hoping I can go back as soon as is humanly possible."

Published: 05/04/2005