AWARD-WINNING Ealing theatre group The Beaufort Players is to bring an adaptation of The Wind in the Willows to life this week.

Being performed in 'the round’ of the hall, so the audience will be in on the action the whole way through, they will be taking on Kenneth Grahame's children’s classic using the 2010 Mike Kenny adaptation.

The story follows the adventures and mishaps of Mole, Ratty, Badger and the infamous Toad of Toad Hall, especially when Toad becomes obsessed with motorcars.

Alan Robinson, who plays Toad, said: “I like to think of it as Downton Abbey, but with animals!

“I think the charm of the show is its appeal to adults and children.

“It’s that kind of old world thing which is kind of Edwardian, bringing in animals that children love as well as nostalgia for the adults.”

Primary school teacher Gemma Robinson will be joining husband Alan on stage, along with Chris Burns and Peter Fullager who are playing Badger and Ratty respectively.

Established in 1962, the Players have been performing local productions of both long-standing plays and original works ever since, and has provided a social community for those within it.

“London can be a difficult place to meet people,” said Alan. “Most people come here for work and somewhere like this is a good place to meet friends.

“This group has got me amazing things. I mean, it got me a wife! So that’s always a good thing.”

Diana Dishley, who has taken on directing duties for The Wind in the Willows, also met her husband through the club, former chairman Roger Dishley.

Now in their 53rd year, The Beaufort Players are the current holders of the NODA London Flame Award (London Division Region 2) for their contributions to amateur dramatics within the area.

The Wind in the Willows will be performed every day from this Thursday, November 19, to Sunday November 22 at Ascension Hall, Beaufort Road.

Tickets cost £10, or £8 for over 60s or children aged 12 and under, from here.