comic Keith Loads, who was axed from his spot in this year's Thursford Christmas Spectacular, will still be seen on stage at Christmas after all.Keith, pictured, who farms at Hindringham, has been signed to appear at the Seaside Christmas Special variety show on Cromer Pier.

comic Keith Loads, who was axed from his spot in this year's Thursford Christmas Spectacular, will still be seen on stage at Christmas after all.

Keith, pictured, who farms at Hindringham, has been signed to appear at the Seaside Christmas Special variety show on Cromer Pier.

“This is the next-best thing to appearing at Thursford and I am absolutely over the moon about it,” said Keith, whose disappointment at not being invited to appear in this year's Thursford show was reported in the Times last month.

“The Seaside Special people approached me after they read about my slot at Thursford being axed, and I couldn't be happier because I love the theatre at the end of the pier. I know it well, so it will be like home from home for me.”

He is due to appear twice a day at Cromer show, starting on December 5 and continuing until December 27, and will be seen in 39 shows.

Thursford show officials said Keith's eight-minute slot, which he has held for six years, was not renewed because it was time for a change.

Keith said: “I have been inundated with people asking me about why I am not at Thursford this year since the story appeared. I have told them to continue to see the show as planned and make their minds up if they enjoy it as much.”

Keith said that he had received several offers of work over the festive season but had decided that he wanted to stay as local as possible and that the Cromer Pier offer was just right for him.

“I am really looking forward to it and welcoming my loyal followers,” he said.