The cast for performances of The King's Speech in a Newbury theatre has been revealed.

The Watermill Theatre's production of David Seidler's play will run from September 20 to November 2.

The play, which is about King George VI's struggle with his speech impediment, will see Peter Sandys-Clarke take on the role of Bertie, the soon-to-be King George VI.

Mr Sandys-Clarke's previous stage credits include The Letter, Journey's End, and The Importance of Being Earnest.

He has also been seen on screen in The Crown, Downton Abbey, and Foyle's War.

Arthur Hughes, known for his roles in The Innocents and The Archers, will play speech therapist Lionel Logue.

Mr Hughes has also played the title role in Richard III for the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Aamira Challenger, who has appeared in Agatha Christie's Witness for the Prosecution, will play Elizabeth.

Rosa Hesmondhalgh will take on the roles of Myrtle Logue and Wallis Simpson, while Christopher Naylor will play Cosmo Lang.

The cast is completed by Stephen Rahman-Hughes as David/Stanley Baldwin, and Jim Kitson as King George V and Winston Churchill.

Director Emma Butler said: "I’m thrilled to be working on David Seidler’s brilliant play, The King’s Speech.

"Bringing these fantastic characters to life with such a superb cast and building this beautiful central relationship with Peter and Arthur will be a joy.

"Set against a backdrop of a world in political turmoil, the rise of fascism and a crumbling of tradition, The King’s Speech feels searingly relevant in 2024.

"Deconstructing barriers across societies and continents, this play shows that, underneath the surface, we are all the same at heart, and that friendships can bloom regardless of where we come from."

The Watermill Theatre has partnered with The Fluency Trust to explore the themes of the play.

The Fluency Trust is a registered charity that works with Swindon Borough Council to run residential courses for young people who stammer.

The King's Speech will be directed by Emma Butler, with set and costume design by Bretta Gerecke, sound design and composition by Robin Colyer, lighting design by Ryan Day, and production management from Tom Nickson.

There is an age rating on the play of 12 and over. Performances take place Monday to Saturday at 7.30pm, with performances at 2.30pm on Thursday and Saturday.