THE man with one of the most famous voices in showbusiness has vowed to hook audiences with a classic children's tale.

Yorkshire-born Brian Blessed is to appear as Captain Hook at the Sunderland Empire next month, in Peter Pan.

This will be the fifth year he has appeared in the touring pantomime, which has become something of a family affair - his wife, actress Hildegard Neil, appears as Mrs Darling in the show.

"Playing Captain Hook is an adventure to me, just like climbing Everest," said the star of dozens of TV shows and films, who has attempted to climb Everest on several occasions.

"I think the book is a work of genius and the pantomime is the only way of bringing it to life."

He plans to see Newcastle and Sunderland play football during the run, from December 27 to January 20.

Tickets start at £7 and are available from the Empire's box office on 0191-514 2517.