ACCRINGTON PALS is the taut and tearful saga of men at war and the women left at home to grieve.

The First World War drama is this week's compelling play at St Joseph's Players.

Set against a stark, dark backdrop, it tells the true story of the thousands of soldiers who marched away from the little Lancashire town full of hope and high ideals. Never to return.

And of the families who mourned for more enlightened times. Hopes dashed forever.

Jennifer Hampson heads a fine cast . . . Josie Evans, Barbara Mayers, Rachael Robinson, Nicola Reynolds, Joe Roberts, Stephen Hampson, Rufus Bennett, Michael Wilkinson and, making his debut, 14-year-old Culcheth High student David Phizacklea.

Loot out for a poignant playing of 'The Last Post' by local bandsman Jack Woods.

The show, which ends a four-night run tomorrow, is directed by Linda Sargent.

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