A SHAKESPEARIAN called Will is so keen to make his stage debut with a leading North drama group that he got on his bike for 40-mile round trips to rehearsals.

Non-driver Will Bennett, from Darlington, took to two wheels to perfect his role as Oliver in As You Like It for this week's open-air production by the Castle Players in the grounds of Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, County Durham.

Mr Bennett said: "I came to see the Castle Players in last year's sell-out production of A Midsummer Night's Dream and was totally captivated.

"I've never acted before, but when I heard about this year's production, I was determined to join the fun.

"I love every minute of it, even though it does mean I've a bit of a trek to get to rehearsals."

The group's spokesman, Trudi Dixon, said: "We are delighted to have Will making his debut in this production. He is a great asset to the company and his endeavour to get to rehearsals is a credit to him."

The play runs from tomorrow, July 10 until Sunday, at 7.30pm. There is an extended interval during each performance to allow the audience to enjoy a picnic supper and each night ends with fireworks.

Ticket prices range from £4 to £12 and are available from Bowes Museum reception. Alternatively, telephone 0800 074 7080.