A Walney curate pulled on his dress in 2000 to revive a tradition of church pantomime on the island.

The Mail, on March 11, said the production of Cinderella was a sell-out but nine years earlier the show had been scrapped during rehearsals as interest had dwindled.

It noted: "Walney clergyman John Dixon and Barrow's archivist Aidan Jones dressed up as the ugly sisters to help the show go with a bang.

"The tradition of St Mary's Church pantomimes was revived by the curate using the original script from nine years ago.

"The show was an ecumenical affair backed by Walney Churches Together and including the Baptists, Methodists and Roman Catholics.

"Mr Dixon was keen on amateur stage shows from his days at college.

"The script was written by Alec Craig, who works at Barrow Jobcentre, and includes many local references.

"People are threatened with banishment to 'Outer Mongolia, or even Askam'."

The title role in Cinderella, staged at the Knox Street Hall, was played by Walney schoolgirl Emma Shearer.

Her Prince Charming was Walney health centre nurse Julia Sharpe.

Roy Sharpe produced the scenery while Kath Wise and Carol McGlown came up with the colourful costumes.