EastEnders actor Scott Maslen has been booked to star in this year's pantomime at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury.

Best known for playing Jack Branning in the popular soap - and DS Phil Hunter in The Bill for five years before that - Maslen will take on the role of Abanazar in Aladdin this Christmas.

In 2010, he was also a popular contestant on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing.

The 42-year-old returned to theatre last Christmas when he starred in his first panto in Bournemouth, playing the same villainous role he will take on in Canterbury.

The former model says: "It was hard work, but a lot of fun. It was good being back on stage again after so many years on TV, and I was keen to do another pantomime, especially a character like Abanazar – so great to get your teeth into!"

Maslen is good friends with fellow EastEnder Samantha Womack, who starred in last year’s Marlowe Theatre pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk.

He adds: "Sam was full of praise for the theatre and its audiences. She also enjoyed living in Canterbury for the show’s run - in fact, she highly recommended it all!"

Joining him for the show will be Phil “Mister Maker” Gallagher and Ben Roddy, who make a return to the Marlowe for Aladdin.

Both were big successes in Jack and the Beanstalk, which was seen by more than 90,000 people.

Gallagher will play WisheeWashee, while Roddy will once again play the dame - this time, Widow Twankey.

Aladdin will run at The Marlowe Theatre from Friday, November 28 to Sunday, January 11.

For times and ticket details, call the box office on 01227 787787, or go to marlowetheatre.com.