E. NESBIT’S well-loved tale The Railway Children is brought to life in a new adaptation at Swindon Arts Centre. Peter and Phyllis live in a comfortable house in London until their father, who works for the government, is falsely accused of selling state secrets and is imprisoned for five years.

The children and their mother have no choice but to leave their home and move to a quiet little cottage next to a railway in Oakworth, Yorkshire. They quickly make friends with the Station Master, Mr Perks, and an old gentleman who waves every day from his carriage on the 9.15 to London. This unlikely friendship proves to be a very fortunate one and could be key to the release of their father.

A beautiful blend of storytelling, drama, comedy and musical theatre, this is the perfect way to make literature come alive for all the family. The Railway Children runs from Monday, April 4 to Tuesday 5. Tickets are £12 for adults and £10 for children. To book call 01793 524481 or visit swindontheatres.co.uk