POP Idol star Gareth Gates proved he has many strings to his bow as he played Robin Hood in Clacton.

The Princes Theatre was transformed into Sherwood Forest for two days as it staged its second Easter pantomime.

It proved another huge success with almost 1,200 people attending the three performances on Sunday and Monday.

Graham Cole, from ITV’s The Bill, carried his constabulary expertise into the arresting role of the Sheriff of Nottingham, making several references to his former character PC Tony Stamp.

There were also special guest appearances from Zippy and George from Rainbow as the Merry Men.

Strong performances also came from Keely Fitzgerald as Fairy Cher, Eva McKenna as Maid Marian, Ryan Greaves as Wally Scarlett and the very impressive Phylip Harries as the lovable and cheeky Dame Dolly.

Tendring Council culture boss Tanya Ferguson said: "It was a first last year and it has proved another success with a first class cast.”