A young actress has landed a lead role in Cumbria's biggest pantomime.

Sarah Hughes, 19, has been cast as Jill in the Sands Centre production of Jack and the Beanstalk.

And the Carlisle performer, who is going into her second year of training at Italia Conti Academy of Performing Arts, says she can't wait to make her professional debut in her home city.

The former pupil of Austin Friars School, who cut her teeth as an actress with the city's StagedRight theatre school, secured the role following open auditions earlier this month.

Sarah said: "I’ve always loved performing on The Sands Centre stage and, up until I moved to London, have always took part in my stage school’s productions

"That stage that feels most like home."

Sarah will take to the stage with a cast that includes former Britain's Got Talent winner George Sampson as Jack, X Factor singer Ander Abraham as Fleshcreep, children's television performer Gabrielle Green as The Good Fairy and CFM presenter Robbiee Dee, who'll play Dame Trott.

"I'm thrilled to be working with George and the rest of the cast," Sarah said.

"I hope they can share with me their knowledge of the industry but, more importantly, have lots of fun."

She says her family were "ecstatic" to hear she had landed the role, adding: "Christmas can’t come quick enough so I can be a part of what is going to be an amazing show."

The panto see Jack will be transported to a magical kingdom where he will be able to help his poor mother, Dame Trott ,and win the heart of his beloved Jill.

But he has to face the giant and his henchman, Fleshcreep.

The show, which draws in crowds from across northern England and Southern Scotland, will feature a live band and special effects. It runs from December 12 to 31 with matinee and evening performances. Tickets are already on sale.