Maldon audiences for the town's first Shakespeare Festival may spot a familiar face in an unfamiliar setting.

Inspector Andy Fusher, who was based at Maldon police Station until 18 months ago, is to play Oberon, King of the Fairies, in the festival's community production of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

King for the night - Insp Andy Fusher of Braintree police Picture: ADRIAN RUSHTON

Insp Fusher, now based at Braintree police station, is the only law officer to take part in the open-air production in Promenade Park from June 19 to 21.

His fellow thespians include a publican, schoolteachers, students and members of the general public.

Shakespeare's magical comedy will be played out against a simple backdrop of parkland scenery, he said.

The play begins nightly at 7.30pm and tickets at £2 adults/ £1 children are available from Maldon Tourist Information Centre in Coach lane or on the gate each night.

Youngsters at the Plume School in Maldon are putting on a production for the Shakespeare Festival.

The Bard in the their Eyes will be presented in the Stage Hall, Fambridge Road, on Thursday, June 26 at 7pm. Admission is £2 on the door.

Published Thursday, June 12, 2003

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