Adapted and directed by Ann Feloy from Belloc’s classic book, this production made a fascinating piece of entertainment. It was a hymn of praise to Sussex and its countryside as it described Belloc’s journey made on foot from Robertsbridge, in the east of the county, to the western boundary and the start of “the wastelands – Hampshire”.

He journeyed with three fictitious characters, Grizzlebeard, The Sailor and The Poet - possibly diverse aspects of Belloc himself –and through them he was able to hold conversations to pass the time on the road. Their discourse covered a wide range of topics, especially the merits of Sussex cheese, delivered almost Pythonesque in style.

They also related tales and legends apposite to the villages they passed through – often acted out with local historical figures, brought vividly to life through the comic skills of Melville Wilson, who clearly relished the chance to play so many differing parts.

The production used a minimalist set that was enhanced by the projection of old photographs on to the background screen – these together with subtle lighting changes and sound effects proved most effective in creating the various locations.

David Stephens made a fine Belloc, both as the narrator and as himself on the road. There were contrasting portrayals from Ernie Blackman, Grizzlebeard, and David Brown, Sailor - one all placid and gentle while the other all boisterousness and belligerence. Martin Kelly, on the other hand, endowed his ditzy Poet with the air of an effete Romantic.