A TOP scriptwriter and some well-loved actors are combining forces in a new play coming to Malvern.

Party Piece is by Richard Harris, scriptwriter for Outside Edge and The Darling Buds of May. Another comedy, it looks at conflicts between two very different households and stars TV favourite George Cole as well as a long list of famous faces.

Set on a summer afternoon, in the gardens of two terraced houses, an upwardly mobile couple hold a barbecue to celebrate renovations, while their elderly neighbour protects his own more basic surroundings.

George Cole as the cantankerous neighbour is one of our favourite actors, who made his debut as a teenager on the West End stage. He was the star of a 15-year radio series A Life of Bliss, as well as a several television series, including his most famous role, Arthur Daley in nine series of Minder.

While in Malvern, he will be joining fans for a fund-raising lunch at the Cottage in the Wood Hotel on February 17 when he will be talking about his career. Tickets are £30 and proceeds go to the Malvern Theatres Trust. Contact the box office for details.

Emmerdale's Chris Tate, Peter Amory, is also in the cast, along with Tracy Childs (Linda Cosgrove in Born and Bred), Matthew Cottle from Game On and other familiar faces.

Party Piece is at Malvern's Festival Theatre from Monday until Saturday. Call the box office for tickets on 01684 892277.