A CHURCH in Winchcombe will be transformed into a theatre for the weekend as the story of the town's colourful past is brought to life.

Steps Through Time, devised by Christine Lainé, is a dramatic presentation about the town using music, lighting, images and sound effects.

Taking place on Friday, March 7 to Sunday, March 9 at 7.30 pm in St Peter’s Church, the play tells the story of the town from its early beginnings with a cast drawn from the local community.

An array of colourful local characters will tell Winchcombe’s fascinating story including Ralph Boteler, who helped to rebuild St Peter’s Church, Emma Dent, who gave generously to the town and Private Brown, who kept in touch after his return to the Somme.

Christine Lainé, chairman of The Friends of St Peter's, said: “It has been a challenge converting a church full of pews to a theatre in the round where the drama is supported by music and the sound and light effects.

“This is a completely new idea for us, both in the way we have used the church and in the development of the principles of son et lumière productions."

Tickets cost £10 and are available from This Fair Isle, in Hailes Street, and Cotswold Eye Care Centre in High Street or online at fostpw.org.uk.

People can also go behind the scenes of the production with the lighting and sound story on Saturday, March 8 at noon and 1pm with Rob Davies. To register for the free event call Mr Davies on 01242 602657.