SEASONED actor Tony Boardman has stepped into the breach to play Daddy Warbucks in an amateur production of Annie at Worcester's Swan Theatre.

Orphan Annie was left without a Daddy when the actor originally cast had to step down because of work commitments.

Producer Sue Chance of the Stardust Players was relieved and delighted when Tony Boardman offered his services in the nick of time. She said: "He played the Tin Man in our production of Wizard of Oz and he's very good," she said.

Stardust Players is a 30-strong company which has performed at the King's School, Worcester, and the Norbury Theatre, Droitwich.

They have taken a leap of faith by booking the Swan Theatre for their next production on February 16, 17 and 18. "It's going to cost us about £3,500. The scenery alone cost more than £1,000 to hire, but I'm told that tickets are flying out of the box office," said Sue.

"We chose a musical this time, as opposed to a pantomime and it is a real feel-good family show, so we hope it will be popular with local audiences."

"We've got a full cast now, although we would still like more men in the chorus."

"He has only had three weeks of rehearsals so far and he is very quick at learning his words.