The Robin Hood Theatre Company had the privilege of putting on the world premiere of the play, Side-effects, to celebrate their 50th anniversary because Eric Chappell is one of their patrons.

The cast, under the directorship of Dawn Bond, did him proud.

The play, which was in Farndon Village Hall from Wednesday to Saturday, is full of twists and turns.

Some you can see coming but there are plenty you don’t.

Full marks go to Jonty Redgate who was outstanding as the ultra-grumpy Frank Cook, a character whom I am sure many of those in the audience could associate with.

His life has been turned upside down by health problems leaving him unable to walk without help, much to his annoyance.

He finds himself stuck in the convalescent home for a bit of respite care but soon finds a distraction with the arrival of fellow guest Paul Latimer, played by a well-cast Nick Timms.

He has a secret or two and a prejudice or two, which come to light as the play progresses.

Sally Williams is excellent as Frank Cook’s long-suffering wife, June, who puts up with his moans and groans as he wallows in his self pity. She tries everything she can to help including providing a mobility scooter, which, unfortunately, has a mind of its own.

Rebecca Smith is equally good as Paul Latimer’s wife who has her own problems to contend with, mainly linked with love rival Tracey, convincingly played by Lindsay Follen, whom it emerges has an intriguing reason for running after him.

The company are still on tour because their theatre is closed for essential works but manage to maintain their high standards.

This production is no exception — LAM.