IT'S been a couple of years out of the spotlight for keen amateur thespian Mike Edmunds.

He's been involved in his valley community's annual pantomime for 15 years - but kidney disease forced him to take an off-stage directing role in the last two years.

Now, after his wife Jean gave him a kidney, the 62-year-old former miner from Trinant is back, as Widow Twanky.

We reported previously how Mr Edmunds had a successful kidney transplant last year, thanks to an organ donated by his wife.

He's starring in Trinant-based Starstruck Productons' version of Aladdin next month.

"It's really nice to be back treading the boards - I've got quite a lot of lines to learn but I'm really enjoying it," he said.

Mr Edmunds, of Pentwyn Terrace, who works in Unilever's Pot Noodle Factory in Oakdale, has had kidney problems since 1989 but was told last year that he had kidney failure and that he needed a transplant after his body rejected dialysis treatment.

Tests showed Mrs Edmunds 57, was a match and she agreed to be the donor. There was a successful three-hour operation and progress since has been excellent.

Mr Edmunds said the pantomime was important for the local community.

Up to 20 children from the surrounding area are taking part.

Funds from the ticket sales will go towards Cwmcarn High school and keeping Starstruck going.

It runs from Thursday February 14 to Saturday February 16 at Cwmcarn High school.

There is one performance on Thursday at 7pm and two on Friday and Saturday at 2pm and 7pm.

Tickets are priced at £6 or £5 for children and concessions.