PANTO audiences in Glasgow were welcomed through the doors of the King's Theatre for a ride on a magical carpet.

This year, well-known names such as Karen Dunbar, Des Clarke and Jenny Douglas returned to the stage for the thrills and spills of Aladdin.

After the success of last year's pantomime, the cast look set to once again have the crowd in tears of laughter over the festive period.

This year's production also sees the return of Gordon Cooper as pantomime dame Widow Twankey. This is the first traditional dame to appear at the King's since 2006.

Des Clarke, who is playing the role of Buttons this season, said: "I can honestly say I have never experienced anything quite like the King's at Christmas in my life."

Aladdin runs at the theatre until January 12.

MARK PIRIE