IS there anything better than open-air theatre on a beautiful summer night at one of Herefordshire's most stunning settings?

Already a winning trio, granted, but add to that a talented cast and an enchanting take on a literary classic and you've got a first-class night of entertainment.

Hampton Court Castle, Gardens and Parkland, near Leominster, was the setting for Chapterhouse Theatre Company's take on Edith Nesbit's The Railway Children last night.

And not only was the cast of just six very professional, effortlessly changing characters, they also appeared to be throughly enjoying themselves - which always enhances the experience for the audience.

The story explores how the lives of three children are dramatically changed by the disappearance of their father - who has actually been arrested and later imprisoned on espionage charges.

Forced to move north to the Yorkshire countryside, the children learn to adapt to a very different way of life, particularly as their mother battles illness, making new friends and learning a lot along the way.

Discovering a train that runs daily to London, the children gather to wave to those on-board and to send their love to their father in the city, befriending an 'old gentleman' who turns out to become a good friend.

The show features stunning period costumes and traditional music and songs - which have a habit of getting stuck in your head.

We laughed, we verly nearly cried and we felt part of something really quite magical.

Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable evening of entertainment in a beautiful Herefordshire location.