A NEW play retelling Hampshire's role in the medieval battle of Agincourt is hitting the stage this month.

Young actors star in The Road to Glory, depicting a group of young villagers who enlist in King Henry V’s army and sail from Southampton to claim the throne of France for England.

None has experience of fighting in war and some are barely out of childhood. The play follows them on their journey through France until they come face to face with the mightiest army in Europe.

The play, by Neil Duffield, was specially commissioned by the theatre to highlight the region's role in Agincourt, which is being celebrated across the country in its 600th anniversary year.

Supported by Arts Council and Heritage Lottery Fund, the play features a cast made up of local young actors from across Hampshire and will receive its premiere in Hedge End.

Ahead of the premiere performance on Friday October 30, one of the world's leading experts on Agincourt, Professor Anne Curry, will discuss the legendary battle with Dr Cheryl Butler. Audience members can ask questions and there will be a book signing by Prof Curry.

The event takes place from 6.15pm to 7pm.

On Saturday October 31 the playwright will discuss his career and the process of writing The Road to Glory with its director Daniel Hill in a special Q&A.

Performances are on Friday October 30 at 7.30pm and Saturday October 31 at 2pm and 7.30pm. Tickets are £8 (£6 concessions).

The Q&A with Neil Duffield is from 5pm to 6pm. Entry costs £6 (£5 concessions) or £3 if bought with a ticket for The Road to Glory.

To book, or for more details, call the box office on 023 8065 2333 or visit theberrytheatre.co.uk.

More information on the Road to Agincourt project is available from roadtoagincourt.co.uk.