Win a VIP evening at the Empire for a deserving child

Readers will have the chance to spread some seasonal cheer by nominating a little hero to win a special VIP Christmas treat at the Thwaites Empire Theatre.

Families, friends, schools and neighbours are invited to put forward a brave, generous or courageous child aged 16 or under to be the VIP Guest of Honour at the Jack and the Beanstalk Christmas pantomime, showing at the theatre from 2nd December – 3rd January.

Thwaites Empire Theatre has teamed up with Pendle Productions to launch the competition, which will see winners receive a voucher for a family meal at Blackburn’s Pizza Hut to enjoy before or after the show, a giant jar of sweets from Sugar Rush on Blackburn Market, a free programme, toys and a complimentary drink for each adult and child at the venue.

There will also be a chance for the nominated child to meet and greet the star-studded pantomime cast including BBC’s Egghead CJ de Mooi who stars as Fleshcreep in the spectacular production.

The competition has been designed to celebrate the achievements of some brave and inspiring youngsters. It could be a child who has demonstrated exceptional courage and maturity beyond their years dealing with serious illness or family upheaval to talented youngsters who have excelled at school or in their community.

Pendle Productions Director, Tim Lince, said: “Young people do all sorts of positive things to contribute to their local communities, from volunteering to simple things such as doing chores for an elderly neighbour. So many selfless deeds go unrecognised. We want to hear from as many local residents as possible about the good actions of the young people in Blackburn.”

To nominate a child, send in their name, age and why they should win in no more than 100 words to VIP@thwaitesempiretheatre.co.uk. Entries must include the name and a phone number of the person nominating the child or the name and phone number of the child’s parent or guardian. The winner can choose a performance of their choice subject to availability. The prize is for up to 2 adults and 2 children. The winner will be announced on our website.

All entries must be submitted before Sunday, 22 November 2015.