Actor swears at switch-on crowd

The actor had the main role of the Jack in the pantomime

A former soap actor has been sacked from a pantomime after swearing at a 3,000-strong crowd at the switch-on of the Christmas lights.

Ex-Hollyoaks star Paul Danan has apologised after he swore several times at the audience in Preston city centre.

Danan, who also appeared in ITV's Celebrity Love Island, was fined by police and sacked from Jack and the Beanstalk at the Charter Theatre.

Council leader Ken Hudson said his outburst was "a disgrace".

The crowd at the Flag Market included hundreds of children, the city council said.

We're now looking for a new actor... someone who will wow the audience, but treat them with respect Ken Hudson Preston City Council leader

The actor was spoken to by police and given an £80 on-the-spot fine for disorder after the outburst.

Danan's spokeswoman said that he apologised for "his use of highly inappropriate language" and said he "deeply regretted his behaviour".

She added: "In his attempt to enthuse the crowd present, the words were blurted out without consideration. His intention was certainly not to cause any offence or upset to anyone."

Danan was with other members of the show's cast at Wednesday night's event.

They are all due to start rehearsals on Monday for the panto, which runs between 8 December and 6 January.

Councillor Hudson said: "His outburst was a disgrace and an insult to the people of Preston.

"Pantomime is all about family fun and entertainment and we want families to come to the pantomime and have a great time.

"We're now looking for a new actor to play Jack in Jack and the Beanstalk - someone who will wow the audience, but treat them with respect."