Watch out Tony, he's behind you!

Is Mr Brown the Cinderella of British politics?

By Brian Wheeler BBC News Online political staff

Gordon Brown has staged an all star pantomime in Downing Street to raise cash for charity.

John Sergeant played Santa Claus

Former EastEnders colleagues Michael Greco and Sid Owen starred as The Ugly Sisters in Mr Brown's production of Cinderella.

But political journalist John Sergeant stole the show as Santa Claus.

GMTV's Fiona Phillips, as the Fairy Godmother, and former Casualty star Ian Kelsey also took part in the Christmas favourite for 60 deaf children on Tuesday.

The chancellor may have been hoping to bring a little seasonal cheer to Westminster with his big-hearted gesture.

Baron Hardup

But some might argue it's panto season all year round, with MPs crying "he's behind you!" as Mr Brown eyes up the prime minister's job.

Mr Brown was full of festive cheer

The chancellor has often been dubbed the Cinderella of British politics, waiting in vain for an invitation from Prince Charming next door.

But after his £20bn borrowing spree in last month's pre-Budget report, Mr Brown must surely qualify for the role of Baron Hardup.

Mr Blair has recently been auditioning for the role of Snow White, over allegations of his family's financial dealings.

While Mrs Blair would make a passable Dick Whittington, who probably wishes she had "turned again" when she found the streets of Bristol were paved with gold.

Some unkind souls in Westminster have dubbed "quiet man" Iain Duncan Smith Sleeping Beauty.

As for the Ugly Sisters, the list of possibilities is said to cross the political divide.