A CHOCOLATE Labrador dog due to make his stage debut in a village panto has had to ‘bow out’.

Percy the dog was a regular visitor to rehearsals for Colnbrook Amateur Stage Theatre’s (CAST) planned production of Sleeping Beauty.

But his habit of joining in the dances so impressed director Becky Poulton and choreographer Lauren Sivewright that they decided to include him in one of the big numbers.

Sadly Percy has had to drop out after being taken ill and undergoing a major operation.

His owner Sally Fox has had to drop out as well to look after him.

Director Becky said: We are very sad and hope Percy we will be back soon to make his stage bow with us.”

Sleeping Beauty is running at Colnbrook Village Hall in Vicarage Way Thursday to Sunday, December 2 to 5.

Some tickets still available on 07894 579177 or ticketsource.co.uk/cast-theatre-company