IT'S almost time to hear The Verdict at Malvern Theatres.

Produced by the Malvern-based producer, Michael Lunney, the founder of the Middle Ground Theatre Company, the powerful best-selling courtroom thriller, which inspired a multi Academy award-nominated film, is coming to the stage.

A spokesman said: "Frank Galvin is a washed up veteran lawyer and an alcoholic. He is presented with one last chance to redeem himself when he is given an open-and-shut medical malpractice case that no one thinks he can win.

"Up against the unforgiving medical establishment and the all-powerful Catholic Church, he courageously refuses an out of court settlement, believing it is negligence that has condemned a young mother. Smelling a cover up, he instead takes the case and the entire legal system to court."

The spokesman added: "The courtroom thriller features Clive Mantle, a household favourite for over three decades, with regular roles in hit television series Robin Of Sherwood, The Vicar Of Dibley, Mount Pleasant, White Van Man, Game of Thrones and of course Dr Mike Barratt in both Casualty and Holby City.

"It also features Jack Shepherd, one of our most celebrated actors who has a distinguished career in theatre, television and film spanning over fifty years. His awards include a Laurence Olivier Theatre Award, a Plays and Players London Critics’ Award, and a Time Out Award."

The spokesman added: "He is probably best known for his portrayal of Detective Superintendent Charles Wycliffe in the hugely popular television series, Wycliffe."

The Verdict will be heard, and seen, at Malvern Theatres from Wednesday January 25 to Saturday January 28

Tickets are on sale at the Box Office 01684 892277 and online at malvern-theatres.co.uk