COMEDY fans will be rolling in the aisles when a new play comes to Preston.

Based on the best-selling book by travel writer Bill Bryson, Notes from a Small Island brings Britain to life in a unique way.

American-born author Bill Bryson lived in Britain for 20 years, and before he left he decided to take one last trip around the country he had grown to love -- using only public transport.

For seven weeks he travelled from Dover to John O'Groats taking in places like Milton Keynes and Weston-super-Mare, and wrote about the things he encountered on the way.

In his travels he began to wonder what makes people in Britain tick? What is it about people that say 'mustn't grumble' and things like beans on toast, stinging nettles, seaside piers and drizzly Sundays? And why is it that a cup of tea and a teacake can make British people so happy?

Starring talented actor, and Whose Line Is It Anyway comedian Steve Steen, as Bryson, Notes from a Small Island drops in at the Charter Theatre, Lancaster Road, Preston, for a one-off performance on Sunday, February 24.

The hilarious play was adapted for the stage and directed by Paul Hodson, whose most recent work includes the stage adaptation of Nick Hornby's cult classic Fever Pitch, and is currently lead writer for Sky TV's youth drama series Dream Team.

Along the way the audience will meet 68 characters including Mrs Smegma, the Dover B&B's Hitler-style landlady, Cyril the Welsh train enthusiast and the Vodaphone Man on a delayed train.

Tickets are £10 to £12. For information ring 258858.