BRITAIN’S only marionette theatre came to Runcorn to treat children to an exciting performance.

Mr Bimbamboozle, alias Christopher Summerville, brought his traditional puppets to Westfield Primary School.

Head teacher Claire Dawes, said: “He’s a smashing chap. It was absolutely fantastic.

“It was good old fashioned entertainment with lots of jokes and family fun.

“The children really enjoyed it.”

The Harlequuin Puppet Theatre in Llandudno was the first permanent puppet theatre to open in Britain in 1958.

It was built for The Eric Bramall Marionettes touring company and receives no state funding.

Floorshow puppetry, where a marionette is manupulated without stage or scenery, in full view of the audience, was pioneered by the late Mr Bramall.

His partner, Mr Summerville, who has been involved it the theatre since the early days, now runs the company.

Mr Bimbamboozle, puppeteer Chistopher Summerville, entertains Wesfield pupils Alice Bethell and Oliver Slama Picture: Ian Park IPS121211