'Coronation Street' star Beverley Callard pulls out of panto

Former Coronation Street star Beverley Callard has been forced to pull out of a pantomime in Sheffield for health reasons.

The actress, best known for her role as Weatherfield favourite Liz McDonald, had been scheduled to appear as the Wicked Queen in a production of Sleeping Beauty at the city's Lyceum Theatre.

Callard will now be replaced in the part by Margi Clarke, who played Coronation Street's Jackie Dobbs.

"I am so disappointed that I won't be able to take to the stage in Sleeping Beauty at the Lyceum this Christmas," Callard told the Manchester Evening News. "I am particularly sorry I won't have the opportunity to work with Damian Williams and Sid Sloane on this brilliant show."

She continued: "It's great my fellow Coronation Street cast member Margi has been able to take the wicked crown on. I know she'll have a fantastic time over the festive period and I wish all the cast and the audiences a very happy Christmas."

Dan Bates, chief executive of Sheffield Theatres, added: "We are sorry Beverley can't join us for Sleeping Beauty and we send her our best wishes for a speedy recovery."

Callard bowed out from Coronation Street earlier this year.

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