A PLAY will depict the events leading up to the execution by firing squad of a soldier during the First World War.
The Prisoner's Friend deals with events surrounding the death in 1917 of Lance Sergeant William Stones, from Crook, County Durham, who was serving with the Durham Light Infantry and was shot for cowardice.
The one-act play, written by Peter Drake, will be performed at the Durham Light Infantry Museum and Durham Art Gallery on May 14, at 7.30pm.
It tells of Stones' fate through Captain James Farringdon, who tried to defend Stones at the court martial.
During the First World War, soldiers were not allowed to speak in their defence and relied on points put forward by a "prisoner's friend".
This was usually an inexperienced officer whose lack of legal training resulted in extremely weak defence arguments.
The play, which is supported by the Arts Council England North-East, is set in 1982 when Captain Farringdon reveals for the first time what really happened at the court martial.
Tickets priced £5, and £4 for concessions, are available on 0191-384 2214.
Published: 29/042004
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