A classic love story involving a family feud with two wealthy families is coming to a stage next week.

William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet will be performed in the open air at Margaret Haes Riding Centre in Holcombe by the award-winning Illyria Outdoor Theatre group on Friday, July 12.

Nestled in the foothills of Holcombe Hill, the riding centre’s outdoor arena provides a spectacular setting for the play.

It is a tale of ill-fated, forbidden love, which is passionate, poetic and utterly gripping.

A trustee at Margaret Haes, Debra Batchelor, said: “This will be the third year running that Illyria has performed at the riding school.

“These wonderful productions help to raise much-needed funds for the centre, which provides horse riding for those with a disability.

“There really is a great, relaxed atmosphere, with many people in the audience bringing picnics and enjoying the plays in the open air.”

She added: “Hopefully, it will be a lovely summer’s evening, but, in the event of bad weather, we will use the indoor arena, so a great night of theatre is guaranteed!”

The curtain will raise at 7.30pm, but gates open at 5.30pm for those wishing to take a picnic to enjoy beforehand.

Theatregoers should take their own rugs/seating and suitable clothing.

Hot drinks will be available to purchase, and there will also be a raffle to raise extra funds.

Disabled access and toilet facilities are available. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.

The show will last around two hours and 20 minutes, including a 20-minute interval. It is suitable for all ages.

Tickets, excluding booking fee, are priced at £21 for adults, £18 for over 65s, £10 for children aged five to 15 and free for under fives.

Carers will get free entry per one paid for booking.

For tickets and more information visit ticketsource.co.uk/illyria/t-gaedovv.

The riding centre is a charity which benefits the wellbeing and mental health of many, welcoming anyone from the age of four years to ride, including those without a disability, as well as inviting anyone over 13 years to volunteer. People with disabilities form more than half of the clients.