IT was showtime at Arbury Court Hospital in Winwick when more than 20 patients took to the stage to perform Aladdin.

The panto was hailed as a success by staff, patients and relatives who flocked to the hospital on Townfield Lane to watch the show.

Training and development manager Dave McManus, who directed the play along with Diane West, said: “Patients took part in auditions and decided which parts they would like to take on.

"During the period a few of the patients involved moved on to other mental health services, due to the recovery they had made, so this year a few staff were also involved in the production.

“Many patients from across different parts of the hospital were involved in rehearsals once a week since October, and as the event drew near they took place three times per week.”

It took a lot of hard work and effort to make the run of five shows go off without a hitch earlier this month.

Desmond Loo, one of the ward managers at Arbury Court Hospital, who was involved in the production, said: “We were delighted in the success of the event which involved many departments in the hospital, such as catering, maintenance and housekeeping.

"The patients involved enjoyed a special celebratory meal after the final performance.”

“The engagement required throughout the production helps us all see real progression in patients, with improved self-esteem. Some of the patients have since moved on in their care pathway.”