EASTENDERS fans know him as Walford's hard man Max Branning, while fans of Strictly Come Dancing will recognise him as the saucy snake hips, who shimmied his way into the competition's semi final last year.

But for the rest of us in St Albans, we're about to get to know actor Jake Wood as the dastardly Captain Hook in this year's panto Peter Pan at the Alban Arena.

Taking a break from EastEnders for a year, Jake is putting his all into playing the baddie in this year's panto, presented by Evolution Pantomimes.

He will be joined on stage by St Albans' Bob Golding as the outlandish Mrs Smee, David Ribi as Peter Pan and CBeebies' Katrina Bryan.

The 43-year-old, who lives near Welwyn Garden City with his wife Alison and two children, spoke to Hannah Worrall about playing the baddie.

How are you feeling about being in Peter Pan?

It is my first ever panto. It is a good challenge, and I like a challenge, as we saw on Strictly. I'm really excited - it is something different to EastEnders. I have been there for nine years. I finished in July. I need a rest for a bit then I'm into the swing of panto!

How did you get involved this year?

I had never thought about panto before, then the opportunity came along. Steve McFadden [a.k.a EastEnders' Phil Mitchell] was here last year, he was incredibly positive about the whole experience.

Do you think it will be challenging?

I think panto is quite hard to get right. It is quite a difficult thing. I think people who do it well, make it look easy, but I'm under no illusions that it is easy!

Are you a fan of panto?

My kids love panto, we go every year. I think I have seen them all over the years. They will hopefully come and spend a bit of time with me backstage.

What can we expect from your performance?

People know me as Max from EastEnders and Jake from Strictly. I will bring a bit of Max to the role. I think there will be some dance, some of the 'snake hips' Jake from Strictly. I will be bringing a bit of Max, a bit of snake hips to the performance.

Have you been to see a panto in St Albans before?

I have always heard the pantos at St Albans are spectacular.

Do you think your children will be scared seeing their dad up on stage as Hook?

No! They know me too well.

Peter Pan, Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, December 4 to January 3, various times. Details: 01727 844488, alban-arena.co.uk