A BRAND new stage version of Edith Nesbit's classic tale, The Railway Children, will steam into Southampton next week.

This thrilling coming of age story follows the lives of Roberta, Peter and Phyllis, whose lives are turned upside down when their father mysteriously disappears with two strangers one evening.

Forced to leave the comforts of their privileged London life in exchange for a simple existence in the depths of the Yorkshire countryside, this fractured family soon discover new friendships and an unexpected secret that will change their lives forever.

Published in 1906, the much-loved novel has since been adapted for the stage and screen, most famously in the 1970 film version directed by Lionel Jeffries, starring Jenny Agutter, Bernard Cribbins, Dinah Sheridan and Sally Thomsett.

Exeter Northcott Theatre and Nick Brooke Ltd present the new production, which has been adapted for the stage by Dave Simpson.

Directed by Paul Jepson and featuring a video landscape with digital projections by designer Timothy Bird, the production will come to Mayflower Theatre from Thursday to Sunday.

Paul Jepson promised: "The show will be a faithful retelling of the story and will delight audiences up and down the country.”

Tickets for the show are on sale now from 023 8071 1811 or online at mayflower.org.uk