A pooch found himself in a class of his own after being the only canine to turn up for an audition for a regal role on stage.

Although Bosun the corgi was the only candidate on the casting chair yesterday, he proved his pedigree and ended up treading the boards for the first time last night.

Newcastle's Theatre Royal had put out an appeal for a corgi to star alongside the Queen in a scene in the latest production of Roald Dahl's best-selling book, The BFG, (Big Friendly Giant).

Producers had hoped for a selection to choose from, but by the weekend there were still no calls until Bosun came forward on Monday.

Theatre spokesman Greg Miller said: "We knew that we weren't going to get many. But until a few days ago no one had come forward.

"When we heard from Bosun's owners we were praying that he would fit the role. We were very lucky."

Bosun, owned by Angela and Alistair Bennie, of Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, was put through his paces to see that he was friendly enough, and that he would get on with the Queen, played by Verity Anne Meldrum.

Mr Miller: "Bosun was perfect. He just loved the attention."

The BFG will be staged until Saturday, March 23. The booking office can be contacted on 0191-232 2061.