They are names familiar to generations of British children and panto-goers, but it seems the tales of Cinderella, Peter Pan and Dick Whittington inspired more than just entertainment.

Researchers from family history website findmypast.co.uk have traced real people throughout history who share their names with pantomime heroes.

The study unearthed no less than 109 Cinderellas, 91 Robin Hoods and 11 Dick Whittingtons in birth and census records dating back to 1837.

There were seven Aladdins, 19 Genies and even one Peter Pan.

Debra Chatfield, family historian for findmypast.co.uk, said: “Pantomime is a great British tradition and in the same way that many people nowadays name their children after celebrities, in the past perhaps people were inspired by their favourite panto heroes.

“By searching the records online, you can find out more about your family and uncover all sorts of mysteries, which is what makes it so exciting and surprising.

“And who knows, you could even find a real-life Aladdin or Cinderella in your family tree.”

Top 10 panto names found in the records at http://findmypast.co.uk

1. Sultan – appears 249 times.
2. Cinderella – 109 times.
3. Robin Hood – 91 times.
4. Wendy Darling – 27 times.
5. Fairy – 25 times.
6. Genie – 19 times.
7. Dick Whittington – 11 times.
8. Aladdin – 7 times.
9. Peter Pan – once.
10. Captain Hook – once.