The singer and actor, who rose to fame on Pop Idol, will star in and produce this year’s Christmas pantomime at Britannia Pier in Great Yarmouth.

Speaking ahead of rehearsals for Beauty and the Beast, which will run from December 8 to 31, Mr Gates said: "I've been to pier quite a few times over the past year in preparation for the panto.

"It's a great space. I'm very excited to bring panto there.

"The renovations are incredible.

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