Chris Jarvis is an actor, presenter and entertainer who describes himself as "extremely fortunate" to have worked on BBC television for 25 years.

"They keep changing the locks and even moved the CBeebies studios to Manchester but they can’t keep me out," he laughs.

Chris is passionate about pantomime and is delighted to be appearing at Lighthouse, Poole for the venue's 40th anniversary spectacle, Dick Whittington.

What would be your perfect day out in Dorset?

My perfect day in Dorset – it has to be a scorcher and I just wander as far as my legs will take me. Along the beach in either direction from East Cliff or around the New Forest. Bliss!

What are your fondest memories of the county?

Oh there are loads but here goes... Obviously pantomime, working alongside and getting to meet so many great people on and off stage. Finally getting the keys to my house on East Cliff; the very first Air Show was awesome and quite a novelty; days out in gorgeous Swanage, the Variety Club shows in the Pier Theatre and family parties with rellies who are no longer around but forever smiling in my mind.

What has been your proudest achievement?

My proudest achievement in Dorset was helping to organise two benefit shows at the Lighthouse, Poole and the Bournemouth Pavilion. Along with the late great Brian Cant and the good people of the area who came along, we raised £25,000.00 for the Tsunami relief fund. We combined the panto companies from both theatres and put on a revue; we were meant to do one show at 10pm after the two panto performances but due to a communication error (missing out the “pm”) we ended up doing another at 10am! Quite how we all got through four performances – because we still had the pantos to do – I really don’t know. It was awesome to play a part and the audience support was absolutely incredible.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

My family and friends foremost. Otherwise my Kindle!

What would be your favourite thing to do when you have a day off?

Heading down to the beach or sitting in the garden with a large G&T with plenty of ice.

Where is your favourite place to eat in the county?

At the moment we love La Piccola on the Holdenhurst Road – great service and the food is tremendous.

What three things do you associate with Dorset?

A sense of release – every time I come down the Wessex Way after a long time away, I feel the tension draining away. Happiness – whether I’m working or relaxing, who couldn’t be happy being beside the seaside? Classy – I spend so much of my time on the road around the UK and – believe me - in every way, Dorset is extremely classy compared to most other counties.

If you could summarise the county in one word what would it be?

Happy.

:: Chris Jarvis stars in Dick Whittington at Lighthouse, Poole, until Monday, December 31. Tickets are on sale now from the ticket office at Lighthouse, by calling 01202 280000 or online at lighthousepoole.co.uk