IT might be renowned for its despair, family fall-outs, tears and heartbreak, but one of the nation's favourite soap operas is set to provide a happy-ever-after for Lowestoft's Marina Theatre.

IT might be renowned for its despair, family fall-outs, tears and heartbreak, but one of the nation's favourite soap operas is set to provide a happy-ever-after for Lowestoft's Marina Theatre.

EastEnders regularly boasts over 10 million viewers per episode and this week it emerged that this year's headline panto star has landed a part in the show - delighting the Lowestoft theatre which is hoping to benefit from this huge exposure.

Stefan Booth had already been lined up to star as the dashing Prince in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Marina this Christmas, but soap addicts can look forward to seeing even more of him after news leaked out that he would be joining the hit BBC1 soap.

Fans of EastEnders might want to look away now, as it has been revealed that the former Hollyoaks and The Bill actor is due to join the cast as Tanya Branning's new fianc� Greg.

According to show insiders, Greg is a builder and is expected to make his first appearance in Walford in September as he helps to rebuild the fictional London borough's iconic pub, the Queen Vic, after it is destroyed by a fire.

His arrival with Tanya, played by Jo Joyner, is expected to spark jealousy from her on-screen ex-husband Max Branning, played by Jake Wood - ensuring Stefan is kept busy with some exciting storylines.

A national newspaper revealed that Stefan had been signed up for the show on a short-term contract, but although the 30-year-old is reported to be hoping to stay for longer it won't affect his appearance in Lowestoft.

Instead, producers of the pantomime are delighted that the role will help bring even more publicity to the show.

Producer Paul Holman said: 'Its great news Stefan is heading to the Square before joining the cast of Snow White at the Marina this Christmas.

'He's already a well known face from TV but now he'll be on everyone's screens in the run up to Christmas he's sure to create an even bigger stir at the box office.'

Starring alongside the former Dancing on Ice runner-up in the pantomime will be Hi De Hi favourite Nikki Kelly and XFM DJ and former Big Breakfast presenter Mike McClean.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs runs at the Marina Theatre from December 11 through until January 3. Tickets are on sale now and can be booked by calling the box office on 01502 533200. For more information visit www.marinatheatre.co.uk