Can you help ugly step-sister go to the ball in Thornbury? (From Gazette Series)

Can you help ugly step-sister go to the ball in Thornbury?

9:10am Saturday 6th February 2010 in

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AN UGLY step-sister in Thornbury is appealing for help so she can go to the ball later this month.

Thornbury Musical Theatre Group will be performing panto favourite Cinderella next weekend, but in an ironic twist on the classic tale the shoes are missing before the ball has even begun.

Richard Edwards, 53, of Pilning, is set to make his panto-lead debut in the performance by starring as Gertrude, one of Cinderella’s ugly step-sisters.

Despite the costume department of the Musical Theatre Group being able to kit out Mr Edwards, who is an engineer by trade, with a dress, tights, bra, hair and make-up, there are no shoes that will fit his size 11 feet.

The father-of-two, who has been treading the boards in Thornbury for five years, said: "Unfortunately we discovered that the group's extensive wardrobe does not cover any suitable ladies' footwear for my large size 11 feet.

"So far I have tried all of the charity shops in Thornbury and trawled the internet, but without success in finding anything suitable. So I risk not getting fixed up for the panto or being able to go to the ball."

The rush is now on for Mr Edwards to find a suitable pair of shoes fit for the part.

"The performance is very active so high heels or stilettos would not be appropriate or I might end up breaking something, but a very large pair of colourful ladies' shoes or some high lace up boots in a bright colour," said Mr Edwards.

Anyone who is able to help in lending or selling a pair of shoes at a reasonable price should contact Mr Edwards on 01454 632170.

Thornbury Musical Theatre Group will be performing Cinderella at the Armstrong Hall from Wednesday, February 17 to Saturday, February 20. For tickets call 01454 415850.