Rooney excited about pantomime stint

Oscar-winning actor Mickey Rooney is excited about appearing in his first pantomime - despite having no idea what the role will involve.

The star is set to appear in a production of Cinderella in Sunderland, north-east England along with wife Jan - and he can't wait to get involved with the unique seasonal stage-show; a British institution which mixes comedy with fairytales at Christmas.

He says: "I know nothing about panto. I've never seen one. I haven't even seen the script. But I'm anxious awaiting it because it's something I want to do.

"I don't work anymore; I enjoy myself, and pantomime sounds like a great way to have fun."