North Berwick's panto returns - and pays tribute to former cast member Stuart Cormack

The panto had been a much-loved annual event in the town but had not been staged since 2012, after the previous production team retired.

However, the production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs – helped by sponsorship from CALA Homes (East), North Berwick Rotary Club, North Berwick Trust and FES FM – was relaunched at the weekend and dedicated to Stuart Cormack, a former panto regular, who passed away in the summer.

Stuart, a former North Berwick High School pupil, was only 22 when he lost his battle with cancer, just five weeks after being diagnosed.

After leaving the town’s high school, where the shows were held at the weekend, Stuart continued his love of acting at his university drama society.

The pantomime was in aid of St Columba’s Hospice in Stuart’s memory.

Caroline Vevers, director and producer, told the Courier it was a “wonderful” tribute to the 22-year-old. She said: “It was fantastic to be able to revive the town pantomime this year.

“There are quite a lot of costs involved in the staging of a panto, as you have to consider everything from rehearsals, to lighting and sound, to costumes for all the performers, so we’re very grateful to all our sponsors for their generous contribution.

“Without their support, we wouldn’t have been able to stage it at all.

“The children and young people who performed in the panto were all stars, their infectious enthusiasm shining brighter than any stage light.

“It looks like they’ve persuaded me to do it all again next year!”