THE sun was shining and 400 people were sat against the backdrop of Walton Hall.

We were eagerly awaiting the matinee performance of Ratburger by touring theatre group Heartbreak Productions.

This popular David Walliams story – and my children Faye and Ben's favourite – was brilliantly adapted for the stage by David Kerby-Kendall.

Just five actors enthusiastically brought the story to life and adults and children alike watched enthralled.

We were impressed by the clever use of costumes and props. Even though it was an outdoor production every word was clear.

The story covers the adventures of Zoe and her pet rat Armitage and how they escape from her cruel stepmother and Burt the burger man/pest control man.

The play ends with Zoe and her performing rat winning the school talent show and her and her dad having a future together with the opening of Armitage's Ices. The audience were left with a heart warming message to follow their dreams.

The cast worked tirelessly in sweltering heat despite having been touring with this production since the beginning of June.

They were so friendly and took time to talk to members of the audience and sign autographs even though they were soon to be back on stage for the evening performance.

It was a quality production which my whole family thoroughly enjoyed. We hope there will be a similar production next year.

CAROLYN DOCHERTY