THE Wyvern Theatre’s first ever Dick Whittington has met the young man due to take on the role this December.

Earlier this week, the pair met for coffee in Archway, North London, near the statue of Dick Whittington’s cat.

The statue, which was erected in 1821, is allegedly built on the very spot where Richard Whittington heard the bells of London ring out.

Paddy Glynn played the title role of Dick Whittington in Swindon in 1973 under the direction of Donald Bodley, who had also written and devised the production.

“I love panto – I really miss panto,” said Paddy, who had just finished a run of Camera Lucida at the Barbican, in London.

“I love working for children, and with children, because they won’t let you get away with anything that’s not utterly truthful.

“I’d only been to Swindon once, perhaps on a train for some day thing. The theatre was very warm and inviting.”

Kris Morse stars as Dick Whittington this year, his first professional production since graduating from Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts.

“Energy... commitment... truth – and you really have to be in love with that girl,” was the advice she passed on to Kris.

Swindon’s own pantomime adventure will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, stunning sets and fabulous costumes – plus, as is tradition with the Wyvern’s annual pantomime, Dick Whittington promises plenty of audience participation.

Nigel Havers will star alongside newcomer Lucy Kane and pantomime favourite David Ashley, who has performed in the Wyvern’s festive productions for the last three years. Lewis Barnshaw and Suzie Chard will both be returning to the venue for this year’s production, having performed in pantomime at the Wyvern previously – Lewis as Dandini in Cinderella and Suzie as the Genie in Aladdin.

Nigel will star as King Rat.

Dick Whittington is at the Wyvern Theatre from December 6 to January 4.

Book tickets at swindontheatres.co.uk or by calling the Ticket Office on 01793 524 481.