PUNTERS at Inkberrow's Bull's Head Inn are in for a treat now that a new theatre company is set to tread the boards in the bar.

Mouthpiece aims to bring a dose of thespian culture to the traditional country pub, and regulars and newcomers can watch the action while savouring their pints and pork scratchings.

The company, formed by Karin Heslop and Keith Potts, aims to become a small, high-quality theatre production with its roots firmly embedded in Worcestershire.

The pair say that The Bull's Head, with its versatile 60-seat performance space, good beer, food and easy motorway access, is an ideal base.

The pub is also in an area familiar with actor's comings and goings, with Inkberrow used as one of the settings for BBC Radio 4's The Archers radio soap.

Writers

Mouthpiece has now set an agenda with a liberal dose of the local touch, with Midlands writers head-lining.

"We aim to provide a regular and affordable programme of productions at the Bull's Head Inn, and in the longer term to develop a network of venues for touring," said Karin.

"We also want to create links for collaborative work with other theatre production companies, as well as working with arts agencies and local councils to bring theatre to rural communities."

Now the team is getting prepared for their first season.

" Over the next few months we'll be producing a regular programme," said Keith.

Programme

"It starts with Strictly Missionary, a comedy written and directed by Birmingham-based writer Charmaine Russell, which will run from for four nights from the 17th to 20th October."

The play features actors Donna Heaslip, Lise Stuart and David Perks.

Mouthpiece also aims to produce a programme of plays for November by Midland's writer Helen Kelly.

Tickets at the Bull's Head cost £7 each and can be bought from the Bull's Head box office or by telephoning 01386 792233 for credit card payments.