While thoughts should be on barbecues rather than Christmas dinner, a city entertainment venue has already sold-out one performance of its festive panto.

Despite being six months away the SECC's Clyde Auditorium is already fully booked for the afternoon show of Robinson Crusoe and the Caribbean Pirates on December 19.

Bosses say they think the damp summer could have led people to look ahead to the festive season, as well of the success of last year's show, which was the SECC's first professional panto.

As reported in the Evening Times, Glasgow-born entertainer John Barrowman is returning to the venue for the second year in a row to play the lead role in the show, which opens on December 17.

The star of Torchwood and Doctor Who will again be joined by comedy duo The Krankies, who will play Captain Crusoe and Jimmy Crusoe.

Like last year's panto, Aladdin, the show will have special 3D sections and is being produced by panto company QDOS.

Allan Snedden, head of concerts and event sales at the SECC, said: "We're delighted we have sold out a matinee performance of Robinson Crusoe and the Caribbean Pirates already and we'd advise people to book early if they want to see the show.

"I am sure this is in part due to the success of last year's QDOS pantomime, Aladdin which also starred John Barrowman and The Krankies.

"We are looking forward to another successful panto season and to welcoming back John, The Krankies and cast."

This year's show had been billed as Sleeping Beauty, but was changed earlier this year to Robinson Crusoe. Bosses say they altered the show to accommodate the star cast and not because rival theatre, The King's, had also chosen Sleeping Beauty as its festive production.

As reported in the Evening Times, during last year's show John was struck down by flu.

His cousin Greg, 18, a student at RSAMD, got a chance to shine when he performed in his place for some shows.

The Krankies returned to the panto stage last year for the first time since Wee Jimmy (Janette Tough) was injured in an accident at the Pavilion in 2004.

The show runs from December 17 until January 7. Tickets start at £12. Book on 0844 395 4000 or online at www.ticketSOUP.com