Watch out for The Curse of Frankenstein -- not the famous old Hammer horror film, but the shadow of doom which hangs over this year's Shoebury panto about the man who made a monster.

Frankenstein the Panto features a mad doctor by the name of Professor Crackpot, but Crackfoot would be more like it.

Actor Frank Smith, of the Actorcrats Drama Group, lurches on stage tonight with a crutch in his hand.

He broke his ankle during a charity assault course and until recently was rehearsing with two crutches.

Director Andy Byford said: "The amazing thing is that this isn't the first time.

"About 12 years ago he fell over some scenery in Aladdin and broke the same ankle. Still, Frank was the best man for the part. We're delighted that he's made it.

"You can't hide a crutch, so he's making a feature of it. He uses it to poke and prod the rest of the cast."

Frank, 56, now has a permanent metal plate in his foot. Had it been in his head, he would have been a natural for the Monster.

He says: "I shall probably stagger even more than the Monster! As a fan of the original Frankenstein, with Boris Karloff, I know exactly how he should move."

As it happens, the actor who does play the Monster has also been in the wars. Terry Harington fractured his wrist playing football, though he has made a full recovery.

Frankenstein the Panto opens at the Friars Community Centre, at the Renown shopping centre, in Shoebury, tonight at 8pm.

Saturday performances are 2.30pm and 8pm. Tickets: £3.50 adults and £2 concessions . To book call 01702 294172.

The Curse of Frankenstein should thrill and chill every member of the audience, whatever the age.

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