WAR HORSE, the multi-award winning stage drama that has been seen by millions of people worldwide, has returned to the Sunderland Empire at part of its 10th anniversary tour.

The 34-strong cast includes Scott Miller in the central role of Albert, who forges a life-long friendship with Joey. Newcastle-born Ben Murray is Songperson.

Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo, the show features life-size horse puppets created by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company.

Gareth Aled, resident puppetry director, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be back at the Sunderland Empire. It’s such beautiful theatre and gorgeous space."

He added: "It’s such an amazing story for be sharing. What struck me is that this play starts in a village in Devon and really does take a village of people to put the play on.

"It is this amazing company across all departments, not just the cast, that tells this story with such heart and such commitment.

"And at the centre of that is this puppet horse, living and breathing and thinking, and we convince you so strongly of its life."

War Horse is at the Empire until February 23. Box Office 0844 871 3022.