AT THE Lakes School, Troutbeck and were taken back in time to fairy castles, prince and princesses, ghouls and goblins.

We were, in fact, watching Windermere and Bowness Players performing their annual pantomime Sleeping Beauty - and for two-and-a-half hours we were entertained by an excellent production.

Sam Carter, who played the title role, looked lovely and had a very good presence on stage.

She also has a pleasant voice and her duet with the prince, played by Estelle Law, was one of the show's many highlights.

Cast as the dame, Stuart Hart brought his talent to the fore, being cast in so many roles over the past few years - this was certainly a challenge to him and he gave it full justice.

Gareth Lambert, who makes only his second appearance on a stage, played the part of Oddjob.

Gareth is a natural and his asides to the audience were excellent.

The funniest character in my view was Gormless, played by Anthony Dean.

Something between the Incredible Hulk and Jerry Lewis - Anthony had the audience in stitches.

To produce and direct a panto like this is hard enough, but to play major roles as well is a credit to Valerie Lockley, who played Olga Pong, and Mark Burrows cast as King Rumbletum.

One of the highlights of the show was the UV scene which was done by another member of the production team, the hard working Catherine Robinson.

Lighting and sound effects were superb thanks to Paul Gavin and company.

And last, but by no means least, the dancers.

They were a pleasure to watch.

Yet another highlight was their interpretation of the Sleeping Beauty ballet.