YOU know it must be Christmas when you see a 63-year-old mother yelling, "It's behind you!" to a man on stage wearing a dress.

So I'm happy to report that Christmas has well and truly arrived in Hayes.

Jack and the Beanstalk is this year's choice of pantomime at The Beck Theatre, starring Lee Ryan from boy band Blue as cheeky chappy and hero Jack Trot.

The annual fare of innuendo and audience participation to please both kids and their parents were both present and correct, with writers expertly knowing where to draw the line so they get away with being a little bit naughty without the children's knowledge.

Lee Ryan plays the lead role of lothario Jack perfectly, wooing the princess Jill with his charm and saving the village of Amplebottom with his giant-slaying skills.

He is helped along his way by his mum and brother Dame Trot and Silly Billy, who encourage the audience to play along with the fun and games that truly embrace the panto spirit.

The show's song choices borrow from a number of musicals while giving them a fun pantomime twist.

Hairspray's Welcome to the 60s is turned into a duet, with King Manypence and Dame Trot singing a fun ode to being single in your 50s.

There are also modern classics such as Olly Murs' Wrapped Up and Everything is Awesome from the Lego Movie, and of course the expected tunes of Blue such as One Love and Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours).

Qdos Entertainment, the production company, are raising money for Great Ormond Street Hospital during the panto season, which Lee announced at the end of the show, living up to his cheeky character by saying: "Do it because I can't do it.

"Everyone knows Blue is bankrupt, that's why we're all doing panto this year!"

Overall the evening is a lot of fun for all ages and perfect to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Catch Jack and The Beanstalk at the Beck Theatre, Hayes until Saturday January 2.

Tickets are available at: https://becktheatre.org.uk/Online/panto-hayes-uxbridge-pantomime

Pictures courtesy of Catherine Goss of the Beck Theatre, with thanks