TWO actors who are starring in a play set during the First World War have been finding out more about the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) to help them get into the part.

Tom Kay and Martin Carroll are currently starring in an adaptation of Sebastian Faulks’ Birdsong at Gala Theatre, which is running until Saturday.

Ahead of the play’s run, the pair visited Durham County Record Office to find out more about the DLI from principal archivist Gill Parkes.

As well as looking at photographs closely linked to the play’s storyline, they also viewed the First World War exhibition which is currently on display.

Mr Kay, who plays the lead role of Stephen Wraysford, said: “It has been great to find out more about soldiers from County Durham and how similar some of their experiences were to those in the play.

“It’s always a moving experience to perform in a play like Birdsong but this has really given it an extra meaning and we will be thinking of these men and their families during our performance tonight.”

The show runs until Saturday, May 26 and includes matinee performances on Thursday and Saturday.

To book tickets visit www.galadurham.co.uk or call the box office on 03000 266 600.