GLASGOW panto favourite John Barrowman has delighted his fans by announcing he is to return to the SECC for this year's show.

The city-born entertainer will star as Dick McWhittington.

The 45-year-old will again be joined by The Krankies, following last year's Jack And The Beanstalk sell-out.

Dick McWhittington replaces the previously advertised pantomime, Robin Hood. The SECC said it would be contacting those people who have already bought tickets.

This will be the fourth SECC panto season for Barrowman, whose TV credits include Doctor Who, Torchwood and Desperate Housewives, while his London West End appearances include Anything Goes, Matador, Miss Saigon and Phantom Of The Opera.

Jonathan Kiley, executive producer of Dick McWhittington, said: "We're delighted John and The Krankies are returning to Glasgow this Christmas.

"Audiences who have seen the on-stage chemistry of this trio in recent years will know an unmissable treat is in store.

"We are working on a fabulous new script packed with comedy to give a traditional pantomime story a very Scottish flavour."

The Krankies rose to fame after their big break in the 1978 Royal Variety Show.

Their catchphrase 'Fandabidozi' found its way into the homes of a generation of children in the 1980s in BBC shows Crackerjack and Krankie Club.

The pair were awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Great Scot Awards.

Barrowman and The Krankies are renowned for their energetic on-stage performances. They have previously starred in Aladdin and Robinson Crusoe & the Caribbean Pirates.

Dick McWhittington will run from December 14-January 5. Tickets, from £13, are available from www.ticketsoup.com or by calling 0844 3954000.

caroline.wilson@ eveningtimes.co.uk