A WORCESTERSHIRE actor is coming home to perform in smash hit musical Blood Brothers.

Former Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society Youth Section (WODYS) member Simon Rowe, who uses the stage name Simon Willmont, stars in Bill Kenwright's touring production, which arrives at the Malvern Theatres on Monday.

The 29-year-old, who grew up in St John's, Worcester, and attended Christopher Whitehead High School, was the understudy for the role of Eddie for a year before taking over in September last year.

Rowe studied at Worcester College of Technology before going to the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.

Blood Brothers, written by Willy Russell, has been running in the West End for over 20 years.

It tells the story of twins separated at birth. One becomes a Oxbridge graduate while the other ends depressed and addicted to drugs. When they both fall in love with the same girl the result is tragic.

Hailed by critics as a devastating masterpiece, Blood Brothers won four awards for Best Musical in London and seven Tony nominations in Broadway.

It runs at Malvern from Monday, May 5, to Saturday, May 10.

For tickets, priced £20 to £30, call the box office on 01684 892277 or book online at www.malvern-theatres.co.uk