AN autobiographical journey through the life of Rumpole of the Bailey author John Mortimer is being staged at the Swan Theatre, Worcester.

The Swan Theatre Company's production of A Voyage Round My Father takes the audience on a journey through Mortimer's 1930s childhood, hilarious schooldays and wartime service in a Government film unit, where he discovers sex and romance.

All events in the play relate to his unusual relationship with his father, a successful divorce lawyer who continued with his career after an accident left him completely blind.

Director June Hanna, from Hanley Swan, said the play had always been a favourite of hers.

"It's very funny in parts but also very sad," she said. "It's a bit like a soap opera and shows John Mortimer's adventures through a lot of his life until his father dies."

The production features a cast of 16, including three children from the King's School, Worcester. It is at The Swan from Thursday, June 7 to Saturday, June 16 and there will be a special Sunday matinee on Sunday, June 10 in aid of the Worcester Association for the Blind.

Ms Hanna described the association and those involved with it as "marvellous". She said proceeds from ticket sold on the day would go towards equipment for their new resource centre on Sansome Walk. The centre runs Braille lessons and has a fitness room, as well as checking for eye disease. There is also a home visiting scheme.

Tickets for the performances are £8 and can be booked on 01905 27322.