A SUPERB 'sister act' that had Christmas panto-goers in Greenock in stitches is in the running for a top UK stage award.

Still Game’s Mark Cox and River City actor Jimmy Chisholm have been shortlisted for a major accolade at the UK Pantomime Association Awards after their hilarious performances in Cinderella at the Beacon over the festive period.

The pair, who played ‘Senga’ and ‘Sadie’ at the venue, are in the final five in the Best Ugly Sisters category after 46 judges watched no fewer than 207 pantomimes across Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at Trafalgar Theatre in London’s West End on April 19, which is being hosted by TV star Christopher Biggins.

Pauline Kane, director of Beacon Arts Centre, said: “Everyone at the Beacon is thrilled for Mark and Jimmy following their nomination at the UK Pantomime Association Awards.

“They thoroughly deserve this recognition and we wish them all the best for the ceremony next month.

“The Beacon’s pantomime is a highlight of Inverclyde’s cultural calendar and has established itself as a popular Christmas tradition for many families from the local area and beyond.”

Steve Boden, managing director of Imagine Theatre, which produced the pantomime, says they are delighted by Mark and Jimmy’s nomination.

He added: “Our Scottish pantomimes were all forced to close early due to the Covid legislation brought in by the Scottish Government, which was exceptionally hard for everyone involved.

"So it is nice to see recognition for the hard work everyone put into that production.

“Having worked with Mark and Jimmy for a number of years we are in no doubt that they richly deserve this nomination.

"They are both not only great performers, but wonderful people to work with.”

Mark and his Still Game co-star Jane McCarry have become Beacon panto stalwarts after starring in the shows annually over the last few years.

Mark said: "I love Greenock and love coming here every year and it's lovely to be shortlisted for this award.

"The audiences here are always brilliant.

"They make sure you always know they're there."