A PLAY set in the trenches of the First World War is being shown as part of commemorations held to mark the centenary of the end of the conflict.

It tells the story of Will, Robbie and Jumbo, three young Sunderland soldiers, who are serving in the Durham Light Infantry.

Featuring popular North-East folk songs of the period, the friends hatch up a plan to form a choir and use their talents to find a way home.

The play stars Chris Coxon (as Robbie) and Ben Walford (as Jumbo), who both grew up in Consett, County Durham, and performed at the Gala Theatre in their youth before becoming professional actors.

Robin Byers, service manager at the Gala Theatre, said: “We are thrilled to welcome The Muddy Choir to the Gala Theatre on its national tour. This play is an inspiring memorial to a generation of young men from the North East who fought in the First World War.

“We’re also wishing a warm welcome back to Chris Coxon, who attended the Gala Theatre Stage School back when it first began, and also to Ben who hit the Gala stage many a time in his youth. It is great have them back, this time as professional actors.”

It is being shown at The Gala Theatre, in Durham on Thursday, November 1.

There are performances at 2.30pm and 7pm.

Tickets are £12/£10 and can be booked by calling 03000 266 600.