A GLIMPSE into the claustrophobia and fear of the First World War trenches is given in R.C. Sheriff’s play Journey’s End which comes to the Hexagon, Reading, on February 9 and 10.

The production by Original Theatre Company and Icarus Theatre Collective concerns a group of soldiers awaiting orders to attack — and probably to die.

Graham Seed, best known for playing Nigel Pargetter in The Archers, takes on the role of Osborne, the oldest soldier and father figure to the terrified young troops.

Mr Seed, 59, who had been offered the chance to play the role many years ago with another theatre company, said he felt like it was “fate” that the role reappeared for him. “It wasn’t right for me before, but I’m of the right age and right place in my life to truly understand it now,” he said.

“It’s a very powerful story. R.C. Sheriff actually fought in the war and these characters are based on people he knew. It’s certainly very moving.”

Mr Seed said: “It’s a very strong cast. It’s wonderful working with these great young people who are putting in so much effort and are hungry to get a reputation —they deserve one on the strength of this performance.”

Despite a hectic rehearsal period of just a couple of weeks, the play is already garnering positive reviews at the start of its tour and he sees that trend continuing.

“It’s not that the play is simply anti-war. It’s more subtle than that. It’s a play that shows how war affects the soldiers within it. They are real people with real fears and real lives back home. The characters make it all the more affecting.

“I’m enjoying being back on the stage. If you aren’t nervous out there then you just won’t have the energy. I’m at a point in my career where I only take on work that appeals to me and I couldn’t ignore a play of this quality.”

Also starring in the play is Adam Best from TV’s Holby City and Waking the Dead

Tickets for Journey’s End cost from £14.50 to £18.50 from the Hexagon box office on 0118 960 6060 or online at www.readingarts.