REHEARSALS have started for "Here I Belong", a new play by Matt Hartley, which looks at village life over six decades, and all is told over a nice slice of cake.

The play has been commissioned by Pentabus Theatre Company, and a seven week tour will bring the drama to various local venues.

First stop locally will be Hereford College on Thursday, October 20, followed by Bishampton Village Hall, on Thursday, October 27 and Ombersley Village Hall, on Friday October 28.

A spokesman said: "Here I Belong celebrates village life, companionship and community while highlighting the challenges faced by people in rural areas.

"Over six decades, from 1953 to 2016, Elsie’s life, relationships and the right to grow old in her own home will be played out on stage."

Writer Matt Hartley said: "I’m delighted to be asked to write a play for Pentabus. I grew up in a small village in the Peak District and I wanted to write a play that reflected what it’s like to grow up in rural communities and how villages have changed."

Elsie is played by Beatrice Curnew whose recent theatre work includes Pig at The Arcola, Office Christmas Party at Hull Truck and Scenes from a Separation, at The Orange Tree Theatre.

Artistic Director Elizabeth Freestone said: "At Pentabus we are committed to making plays about rural issues and taking them directly to affected communities. I’m excited that these audiences will see our cast transform through the different time periods before their eyes. "Everyone knows someone like Elsie and Here I Belong will be an uplifting and entertaining piece of theatre for people of all ages."

Further booking information and dates can be found at, www.pentabus.co.uk