Growing up just a stone's throw from Pleasurewood Hills, Ryan Holt spent his childhood hearing thrillseekers enjoy the magic of the theme park.

Now years later the 24-year-old is adding his own magic to the popular attraction in Lowestoft, as he brings the first pantomime ever to the park this coming Christmas.

His company Spark Live Pantomimes will be producing Cinderella, which will be performed inside the theme park's transformed Castle Theatre from December 12.

The entrepreneur, who has a history of producing pantomimes said: 'As a child I always found Pleasurewood Hills really magical.

'I used to peer through the fence at Corton Woods near my house, so I could see the train go by and when I was at home I could hear the sounds of people enjoying the rides.

'I went to the Castle Theatre several times, it had such a lovely authenticity about it.

'Pleasurewood Hills was a massive part of my childhood and it feels really exciting knowing what I am going to do.

'There will be fantastic special effects, comedy routines and family fun in abundance.

'Cinderella's amazing transformation from rags to riches will also be very exciting, as it will be done in the same way as it was on Broadway.'

The 490-seater theatre will have a brand new stage floor installed and the show will benefit from an original script, scenery, and sound and light from S&S Sound and Lighting, run by Seth James and Simon Groom, who also grew up in Corton.

Visitors to the park will also be able to enjoy the wintery weather on the family skating rink, which will be open on December 15 and 16, and December 20 to 24, from 11am to 4pm.

Adam Noble, Pleasurewood Hills manager said: 'I am absolutely delighted to be welcoming Ryan and Spark Live Pantomimes into the park this Christmas. We have got the whole package for a fantastic family treat - a renovated restaurant, skating fun, indoor play area and a traditional pantomime.

'We hope that families pick Pleasurewood Hills as the venue for their festive outing.'

Cinderella will run daily until December 27. To book tickets call 01502 586000, or visit www.pleasurewoodhills.com