ACTORS Peter Bowles and Sian Phillips enjoyed a break from the rigours of touring at a fundraising lunch at the Colwall Park Hotel.

The pair, currently appearing in The Unexpected Man, took time out from performing at Malvern Theatres to meet 65 fans at the venue.

Ticket-holders enjoyed drinks and canapes, before a two-course meal in the hotel's award-winning restaurant. They later had the chance to put their questions to Mr Bowles and Ms Phillips.

Both have enjoyed illustrious careers. Mr Bowles is best known for his roles in TV's To the Manor Born and The Irish RM, while Ms Phillips became a household name after appearing in TV series I, Claudius.

Mr Bowles, who had spent the week at the hotel, last appeared at Malvern Theatres three years ago in The Beau. It is a time he remembers well.

"I was naked the last time I appeared there," he recalled. "The play was about the 18th Century character Beau Brummell, who invented the suit. He ended up destitute in France with no clothes and no friends."

He said his recent stay had been somewhat tamer.

"I've climbed up British Camp," he said, "I loved it. I love those ancient places. This hotel is beautiful too. What makes a hotel is the staff and every single one is so friendly and relaxed. I've been really happy here."

Ms Phillips, who was staying in Malvern, was also enjoying the experience.

"I love it here. Obviously I don't have much say in the choice of theatre, but I definitely approve of Malvern and it's such a nice theatre," she said.

The lunch, which raised funds for the Malvern Theatres Trust, was one of several the hotel has hosted. Joan Collins, Diana Rigg and David Suchet are among recent guests.

Manager Iain Nesbitt said it was great for the area and for the theatres: "It just raises the profile of the theatres and it's a reward for the regular theatre-goers."