A FAMILIAR face takes the lead role in a world premiere, staged in Richmond later this month.

J L Carr's novel, A Month in the Country, has been adapted for radio in the past, while a screen version starred Colin Firth and Kenneth Branagh.

But it has never been performed on stage and David Reakes will be the first to play the part of archaeologist Moon when the curtain goes up at Richmond's Zetland Christian Community Centre, on Wednesday, October 30.

Mr Reakes will be known to many because he has toured with companies in the north of England.

Recently, he has enjoyed an educational role at the National Trust's Fountains Abbey estate in association with North Country Theatre, giving him the chance to visit local heritage sites and research his latest role. Following the opening night in Richmond, the play will go on tour, visiting village halls and community centres across the region, with the final performance planned for Gilling West on December 14.