FOR a long time a tale about an evacuee boy and the crusty gent he is sent to live with has intrigued and enticed a North Tawton man.

He has seen the film and watched it performed on stage and Twiggy Lake is now directing his own version of "Goodnight Mister Tom".

Nearly every member of the 14-strong cast of ANTS (Actors of North Tawton) is playing three parts, quick changes needed at times, but the boy, William stays as William throughout.

It is a story that has enchanted, it is truthful and thought-provoking, has its uplifting and light moments and shows the effect both have on the other as time passes.

"It is set in times of intense hardship and loss but has times of joy and is full of hope," said Twiggy.

He added it is challenging for the cast and includes members of YANTS, the young section of the society.

Rehearsals began at the end of last year, props and costumes are coming together although one slightly difficult search is for a child’s red bike and an old-looking pram.

Several local schools have become involved and Twiggy is taking everyone down to South Devon to film a part of the show at a heritage railway station, steam trains.

A school in Shropshire has also got involved in making all the gas masks for the cast.

The play is set in the Dorset village of Swyre and by sheer chance, one time Twiggy went to see the play, he found he was sat next to a resident of Swyre who had written books about his war-time evacuation there and his life since.

"Goodnight Mister Tom" is being staged at North Tawton Town Hall on Wednesday May 29 to Saturday, June 1. Tickets will be for sale later from North Tawton Post Office.

The play is written by David Wood from a novel by Michelle Magorian that has delighted generations of children and adults.

Anyone who might be able to help with the props or need information regarding tickets could please email the props mistress at [email protected] .