Panto star Niki Evans was taken to hospital by ambulance after falling on stage during the finale of a performance at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre.

The former X Factor semi-finalist, who plays the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella, was feared to have broken her right ankle in the tumble but doctors at New Cross diagnosed a bad sprain.

She lost her footing while walking down a flight of steps to take her bow during the last scene.

Stunned fans watched as she was helped from the stage by two dancers on Friday night.

She was forced to miss matinee and evening performances on Saturday and yesterday. Her part was played by understudy Emma-Katie Adcott.

There are no shows today and theatre bosses hope she will be fit enough to resume her role tomorrow.

Grand spokeswoman Vicky Price said: “Unfortunately the ankle was still very swollen yesterday but it is hope Niki will return to the stage tomorrow.”