A NEW adaptation of Thomas Hardy's classic novel Far From the Madding Crowd is released in cinemas today, May 1.

The story concerns independent, beautiful and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), who attracts three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), a sheep farmer, captivated by her willfulness; Frank Troy (Tom Sturridge), a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), a prosperous and mature bachelor.

This timeless story of Bathsheba's choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love - as well as the human ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance.

Thanks to Twentieth Century Fox, we have three Far From the Madding Crowd prize packages to give away to Gazette readers.

Each package includes an umbrella, picnic rug, book, soundtrack and bag.

To be in with a chance of winning one, simply answer the following question: Who played Bathsheba in the 1967 film adaptation of the novel?

Email your answer, plus your name, address and contact telephone number to joanne.mace@basingstokegazette.co.uk or send the same details by post to Far From the Madding Crowd competition, Joanne Mace, Gazette House, Pelton Road, Basingstoke, RG21 6XD.

The winner will be picked at random from the correct entries received by 10am on May 7 and contacted shortly afterwards. Prizes must be collected from Pelton Road. Good luck!