Peter Whelan's play movingly told the story of the men of Accrington who volunteered for the First World War and the effect it had on the women left behind.

It was a tale that combined the horrors of war - the battlefront scenes were realistically achieved - with doomed love affairs between the pragmatic May and Tom, the idealistic dreamer, and the young romantics Eva and Ralph.

It also depicted the challenges the war brought to beliefs, not only of religion but also the honesty of public information.

The play was an interesting reminder of how the attitude to war has changed.

Almost a century ago, a jingoistic nation marched off proudly whereas today people take to the streets to prevent it.

The strength of the Wick Theatre's production lay with three excellent performances from the actresses playing May and Eva and their neighbour Sarah.

They were well supported by the rest of the company.

Review by Barrie Jerram, features@theargus.co.uk