VETERAN of television and film, Tony Britton, takes the stage at Malvern Theatres later this month to star in the winter drama The Holly and the Ivy.

Set on Christmas Eve 1947 in a Norfolk vicarage, the period classic by Wynard Browne is being presented by Malvern-based Middle Ground Theatre Company.

While a family gathers for the festive season, peace and goodwill radiates from the warm-hearted elderly vicar whose young daughter is caring for him. With the arrival of two irritable aunts and a second, errant daughter, the emotional veneer is peeled away as buried skeletons begin to tumble from the closets forcing the family members to confront regrets and secret anxieties.

Spanning 50 years, Tony Britton's career includes TV appearances in Don't Wait Up with Nigel Havers and The Way We Live Now, with film credits including The Day of the Jackal.

Born in Birmingham, he made his professional debut at 18 before joining the army. After being demobbed in 1947 he joined Manchester Library Theatre as assistant stage manager. From there he starred in major productions around the UK and went on to star in many screen shows.

He was last seen in Malvern during August appearing in The Circle.

Cast alongside Britton is former children's TV presenter, Brian Cant, who began his career in repertory theatre with seasons across the UK. Before become involved in children's programming, he starred television series such as Dr Who, Z Cars and Dixon of Dock Green.

He appeared in Malvern in The Railway Children last spring.

The play runs from Tuesday to Saturday, January 14 to 18. Tickets start at £10, available from the box office on 01684 892277.