The last time Bernie Nolan graced the stage at Croydon's Fairfield Halls was with her famous sibling singing act more than 20 years ago.

But now she is back and has ditched her nice as pie image to play the wicked queen in this year's pantomine Snow White.

"Panto is always good fun to do and we also have a good laugh," explained Bernie who is something of a panto pro, having performed in the Christmas theatre favourites since 1988.

But despite having much experience in the business, the Dublin-born singer and actress is under no illusions how gruelling the panto schedule can be.

"Panto is a killer, it's one of the hardest things to do. But I'm looking forward to playing the baddy and being evil because the Nolan image is so cheesy.

"And every time me and my sisters toured we always did the Fairfield Halls so it's great to be back in Croydon."

Bernie has been a regular feature on successful ITV soap The Bill as PC Sheelagh Murphy and took part in Channel 4's reality show The Games earlier this year.

But the mum of one has no plans to slow down and will begin a nationwide tour of the play Mum's the Word early next year.