PRINCE Charming, 10-year-old Tim Ashley, was forced to miss the school pantomime, but teachers ensured he was still able to step into the limelight.

The whole Ashley family went down with a stomach bug the night before Tim's big day.

He was due to play one of the leading parts in Horningsham School's quirky version of Cinderella last week.

Despite suffering stage fright during the dress rehearsals, Tim was starry eyed and looking forward to the big nights.

Disaster struck on Sunday December 16 when the school heard about the family's illness.

Teacher Peter Newbury had to step in and fill Prince Charming's small shoes.

He said: "I had to try to learn all of his lines and sing a solo to 150 people."

When Tim returned to school the final curtain had fallen, but his spirits were raised after hearing about his teacher's brainwave.

Mr Newbury said: "When he came back he was a broken lad, so we decided to organise another performance.

"He was really chuffed about it. He's a lovely lad and really appreciates the effort that has been made."

Tim's family and other parents enjoyed the special production in the village hall on Friday.

"Most people wanted to see it again and it was a nice end to the school term, before the Christmas holiday," said Mr Newbury.