TV and film favourites, Rosemary Leach and Francis Matthews will be on stage at Malvern Theatres next week in William Douglas Home's sparkling comedy, The Kingfisher.

The Kingfisher, written by William Douglas Home, brother of the former Prime Minister, is a wonderfully funny comedy transporting audiences back to a bygone age.

Elegant and witty dialogue combine in this delightful story which proves that romance is not the prerogative of the young and that the old can still laugh at their past follies, the eponymous kingfisher, standing as a symbol of eternal hope.

Forty years ago Cecil, the greatest novelist of his generation, loved and lost Evelyn, the only woman he ever should have married. When Cecil discovers that the dull and respectable husband Evelyn married on the rebound has died, he is determined to rekindle the old flame.

He arranges to meet her again under the same beech tree in his garden where he once kissed her. His heartfelt expectations of matrimonial bliss have however, failed to take into account the possible objections of his prospective bride, not to mention those of his long-suffering and opinionated butler, Hawkins.

Award-winning actress Rosemary Leach is renowned for both stage work and an extensive TV career.

Her numerous roles have included television appearances in Berkley Square, Tilly Trotter and she won a Best Actress Nomination for Cider With Rosie. Her film work includes That'll be The Day and A Room With A View, both earning her BAFTA nominations.

As well as over 40 film credits, Francis Matthews leading TV roles include Paul Temple to, more recently, Dr Always in Heartbeat and The Royal. The Kingfisher plays at Malvern Theatres from Monday - Saturday, November 14 - 19.

Tickets are £14 - £22 and are available from the box office on 01684 892277 or on-line at www.malvern-theatres.co.uk.