A First World War production of life in the trenches will be staged in Sussex.

The End of the Journey, inspired by RC Sheriff’s famous play Journey’s End, will be performed in Selsey, which he often visited. The play, to be staged at Selsey Pavilion, follows the author’s personal experience of the Great War.

Gillian Plowman, writer of The End of the Journey, said: “In considering a way to properly mark the centenary of the First World War, my thoughts ran to RC Sheriff’s link with Selsey and the letters to and from the trenches.

“These poignant letters, and Sheriff’s own letters to his mother, provided the thread which runs through the play.

Sheriff is thought to have begun writing Journey’s End on holiday in Selsey.

Despite the success, Sheriff was connected to the area for many years and was involved in an amateur production of the play at the Pavilion in 1933.

Ms Plowman said: “Since moving to the town nearly 30 years ago, I have been fascinated by Selsey’s history as a haven for writers, artists and musicians, and intrigued by what lies behind the wonderful facade of the old Pavilion.”

Pamela Howard, world renowned director and resident of Selsey, said: “In every community there is usually a forgotten space waiting for someone to spy its potential.

“When we discovered that Sheriff led an amateur production of Journey’s End at the Pavilion in 1933, we realised that the space and the story of Sheriff’s trench experience could come together in a special event.

“The End of the Journey will offer a promenade performance – physically leading spectators through the spaces from the dark days of the First World War to the lighter, post-war years.”

There will be 16 one-hour performances from August 5 to 10. Admissions are limited to 30 people per show. Tickets from www.arts dreamselsey. ticketsource.co.uk.