A CLASSIC whodunit is coming to Durham’s Gala Theatre next month (September 14-19).

A touring production of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap will visit the Gala for a six-night run from September 14 to 19.

The ever-popular murder mystery originally opened in London’s West End back in 1952, starring the late Richard Attenborough and his wife Sheila Sim.

Its stunning success means it has been playing continuously in the capital ever since, making it by far the longest-running theatre production in history, with more than 25,000 performances to date. Now The Mousetrap is taking its first UK tour.

The plot begins with the murder of Maureen Lyon, but the focus quickly switches to Monkswell Manor guesthouse, where owners Giles and Mollie Ralston are welcoming a mismatched group of visitors.

The arrival of Detective Sergeant Trotter brings suspicion and, as the group becomes snowed in, it becomes apparent that each and every one could be a potential suspect in Maureen’s murder.

The touring production stars Mark Homer, who played Tony Hills in Eastenders, as Giles Ralston.

There are shows each evening at 7.30pm, plus Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets are priced £26.50 for Friday and Saturday evenings, £24.50 for Tuesday to Thursday evenings and the Saturday matinee and £21.50 for the Wednesday matinee, with concessions £2 cheaper for each. All Monday tickets are priced £22.50.

To book, visit the Gala box office, call 03000-266-600 or go online to galadurham.co.uk