THE beautifully landscaped gardens of The Old Glebe in Eggesford are the perfect setting for a performance of Shakespeare’s comedy masterpiece, A Winter’s Tale, which will take place on Sunday, July 17.

This is the 400th year after Shakespeare’s death and it is clear that his work remains extremely popular with audiences both young and old.

Renowned rhododendron specialist Nigel Wright has spent more than 35 years landscaping the gardens which will present a magical backdrop for the performance by The Cygnet Theatre Company.

The event is raising funds for the upkeep of the historic All Saints Church at Eggesford and visitors are invited to take a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon before the early evening entertainment.

Snacks and refreshments from the bar will also be available.

Exeter based Cygnet Theatre is well-known as both a touring company and drama school and has been delighting audiences since 1980.

This will be their first visit to Eggesford and they will present a playful and accessible production of one of Shakespeare’s later plays.

Doors open at 3pm so visitors will have the opportunity to explore the wonderful gardens before the performance starts at 5pm.

Tickets priced at £12 for adults, £6 for under 18’s and £28 for a family ticket, are available from Eggesford Garden Centre (telephone 01769 580250) or online: www.wegottickets.com/cygnettheatre .