This is an affectionate homage to one of England's funniest comedians, Tony Hancock, an alcoholic who took his own life back in 1968.

The play is set in limbo where he awaits judgement by The Great Architect Of The Universe, who turns out to be "a bird", bad news for wife-beater Hancock.

Naturally there are many references to the swinging 1960s - "all Herman's Hermits and gonorrhoea" - and Hancock's inability to cope with the changing times.

That and his struggle with the class system - "Heaven should not be a gentleman's club" - were at the heart of his comedy and of this cracking one-act play.

Mark Brailsford looks like the man and the face is vital with Hancock.

The underlining angst is missing from the voice and body language making some of the lines a little lightweight; however, Brailsford doesn't miss a laugh and there are many.

The three supporting actors play eight other characters, only one of whom recognizes the comedian, much to his despair.

Hancock is desperate for immortality on earth and in heaven - "provided it isn't run by the BBC!".

The Final Judgement with St Peter is a trifle laboured and sanctimonious but can be forgiven just as we forgive Hancock his sins.

Three stars