Thirteen schools from around north-east Essex are getting ready for a panto treat at Clacton’s Princes Theatre.

Almost 2,300 pupils and teachers have been signed up for special performances of Peter Pan starring TV presenter and celebrity Jeff Brazier. There will also be workshops for the youngsters to enjoy after the show.

The school performances run from Monday, December 16, to Friday, December 20, starting at 10.30am and cost £7.25.

There are still seats and workshops available on certain dates.

The schools booked in are Frinton Primary, Burrsville Infants, Great Clacton Junior, Tiptree Heath Primary, Shorefields, Brightlingsea Infants, Alton Park Junior, Frobisher Primary, Old Heath Primary, Broomgrove Junior, St Clare’s Primary, Wix and Wrabness Primary and Colchester Institute.

The professional panto is being put on by Polka Dot Pantomimes in association with Tendring District Council (TDC) with public performances taking place from December 14 to January 1.

The show will feature a West End cast along with 42 local young people in three separate teams.