Popular television presenter Stephen Mulhern has been named as the star of this year's Marlowe Theatre pantomime, Dick Whittington.

The well known entertainer, currently hosting ITV's Saturday Night Takeaway starring Ant and Dec, will play Idle Jack.

The new pantomime will also see the return of Marlowe favourites Ben Roddy as Dolly the Cook and Lloyd Hollett as Captain Crabstick.

Stephen twice appeared at the old Marlowe and starred with EastEnders' John Partridge in the first pantomime in the new theatre in Cinderella in 2011/12.

He said: “I am over the moon to be returning to Canterbury this Christmas. The Marlowe is a stunning theatre and Evolution Productions produce some of the best pantomimes in the country.

"I can’t wait to be working alongside producer Paul Hendy again and my good friends Ben and Lloyd. We aim to make itthe best pantomime Kent has ever seen."

Paul said: "Stephen is one of the biggest stars on British television and we are absolutely thrilled that he has agreed to come back to The Marlowe to appear in our spectacular, family pantomime," he said.

"In my opinion, he is one of the best pantomime performers in the country and I know the people of Kent are going to love him in this show.

Tickets are selling incredibly well with some shows already sold out so I urge people to book early for the best seats."

Dick Whittingtonis at The Marlowe Theatre from Friday, November 25 to Sunday, January 8 2017. For times, prices and to book tickets, call the box office on 01227 787787 or go to marlowetheatre.com.