Watch video: When Covid caught Father Christmas in Sidmouth Town

Sidmouth residents will see many familiar faces in this funny, uplifting pantomime production by local storyteller Janet Dowling and a band of festive helpers.

Janet describes it as 'a mash-up of When The Grinch Stole Christmas with Covid-19 playing the Grinch'.

She said: "Covid (boo hiss) wants to stop Father Christmas from delivering presents - so that people get very sad and more likely to catch Covid 19!

"When Father Christmas is trapped in Sidmouth, Covid thinks he has won but he hasn't accounted for the Guisers and the Mummers (and the Giants Prince George and Sabre) who rally the town to rescue Father Christmas.

"It all leads to an epic battle between Covid and Sidmouth residents, with a lesson for respect and working together."

"It's Bodgit and Kobble' - all filmed on people's phones, so please take it for what it is- a bit of a larf- rather than an Oscar-winning performance. In aid of Sidmouth Hospice at Home and Sid Valley Food Bank.

See how many 'faces of Sidmouth' you can spot

"There are over 100 local residents and friends of Sidmouth taking part. The video is about 40 mins long - but I couldn't cut it without losing some people's contribution!

"So bear with me and have fun with it! You can enact the search for Father Christmas in your own home, try pulling him out of the chimney , even re-enact the epic battle in the market square with Covid. Or join in the dance at the end!

"Most importantly - stay safe, stay distanced, wear a mask and wash your hands. Merry Christmas, happy winter solstice, happy holidays!"

Ironically, the video was due to be shown at this week's Oasis Café, but the session had to be cancelled because of Covid-19.

So here's a chance to see the video, if you haven't already done so, and take on board its message of community strength and optimism.