A PLAY about a legendary North-East rower went down a storm during three performances in London.

Hadaway Harry, by Ed Waugh, tells how a team of oarsmen led by Tyneside-born Harry Clasper defeated the ‘unbeatable’ Thamesmen at Putney in 1845.

It was to be the first of eight world titles won by Clasper and his crew.

The play was a sell-out in the North-East in 2015, and at the weekend was performed three times in Putney at the London Rowing Club, near the starting line for those famous victories.

Mr Waugh said: “We really wanted to test it in London and it went down a storm.

“Jamie Brown (Harry) and Wayne Miller, who plays numerous characters, were absolutely fantastic.”

The play will be performed at Newcastle’s 1,200-seat Theatre Royal this Friday and Saturday (February 24 and 25).

Mr Waugh said: “We can’t wait to play the Theatre Royal. People will not only be entertained by the show but they will learn that working people also create history.”

Tickets cost from £10 from 08448 112121 or visit www.hadawayharry.co.uk