Nothing like The Wooden Horse, Customs House, South Shields

Their already strong relationship is strengthened by the wartime experiences they share.
Enthused as a boy by his grandfather's heroism, Wayne has followed in his footsteps but is totally unprepared for life in the Iraqi war zone.

And it is only now that Tommy opens up and exposes him to the true horrors he faced as a soldier in the Second World War, from fighting in the trenches to serving as a prisoner of war.

The set is simple but extremely effective. With modest furniture set against a military camouflaged backdrop, the rest of the stage is covered in pits of sand and pebbles to convey an array of different locations as the two characters successfully flit between scenes from their past and their present.

Customs House favourite Donald McBride is, as always, an effortless watch, bringing well-timed humour to what could easily have become a depressing piece.

Geordie actor Michael Imerson makes his debut North East performance as Wayne. Although he failed to evoke my sympathy as the dejected soldier, he shone in his various supporting roles during the nostalgic flashbacks.

Jackie Fielding directs a touching and modern performance that well and truly puts our current troubles into perspective.