Actor Graham Cole joins the bill for Wolverhampton pantomime

The former Bill star will join the previously announced Gareth Gates, Lisa Riley, Doreen Tipton, Ian Adams and Adam C Booth at the Grand Theatre from December.

Graham is best-known as PC Tony Stamp in the much-loved ITV serial drama The Bill, a role he played for over 25 years from 1984 until the programme ended in 2009.

In that time he detained thousands of criminals ensuring the streets of London were safe, but will be swapping good for bad, playing the role of the Giant’s henchman, the evil Fleshcreep in this year’s pantomime.

In addition to his lengthy stint at Sun Hill Police Station, Graham held previous roles in Doctor Who, Casualty, The Keeper of Traken and The Twin Dilemma.

Since leaving The Bill Graham has made numerous stage appearances, including the leading role in Scrooge at the Garrick Theatre and General Waverley in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at the Festival Theatre Edinburgh, a role he reprised for a record-breaking run at the Dominion Theatre in London’s West End.

Speaking on his role as Fleshcreep, Graham Cole said: “Having played one of the good guys for so many years I’m really looking forward to playing a real baddie for once, and what better way to spend Christmas than to terrify Wolverhampton audiences working for Giant Blunderbore.”

Jack and the Beanstalk will run from from December 9 until January 14 at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

Tickets start from £19 and can be booked in person, by phone on 01902 42 92 12 or online at grandtheatre.co.uk.