There are many very predictable things about Christmas.

Decorations in the shops from August, enough chocolate to sink a fleet of battleships and cold turkey sarnies on Boxing Day are but three

And nothing is more predictable - and yet somehow as popular as ever - than the end-of-year panto.

The jokes remain corny, the endings are always happy, the goodies win over the baddies, the kids sing on stage and everyone yells “he's behind you” and “oh no he isn't” with as much exuberance as the first time they ever sampled the delights of panto.

And the enduring appeal of pantomime still manages to ensure packed houses in venues like Dereham's Memorial Hall.

The town's operatic society has plumped for perhaps the most popular of all yuletide shows.

Katie Wicks was a delightful lead role and her angelic voice complemented her warm personality as Cinderella. Her real-life fiance, Paul Woodhouse, made his debut in panto and was a real crowd favourite as the loveable Buttons.

The society has developed a great ability in mixing its cast with experienced performers and newcomers and this year is no different.

No Dereham panto would be the same without Tony Wilds and he formed a great partnership as the ugly sisters with Gareth Evans.

Marea Smithson was an excellent Prince Charming and could easily get a job as a Prince Charles impersonator!

Nick Bird (Baron Hardup), Julie Hewitt (Dandini) and Pat Tabor (Fairy Godmother) also deserve mention and the leading roles were well supported by the dancers, other performers and the behind the scenes team.

Predictable, yes. Enjoyable, definitely.