A famous Nidderdale killer is to be subject of a new production by Pateley Bridge Dramatic Society in October.

The historical play, entitled ‘Eugene Aram’, will follow the life of one England’s most notorious murderers.

Born in Ramsgill in 1704, Eugene Aram was a self-taught scholar who set up a school in Knaresborough.  Yet, for more than a hundred years, he was better known in England for his crimes.

He was accused of the murder of a Knaresborough shoemaker, tried and convicted in York, and hanged at Tyburn on the Knavesmire.

The story of his life and trial has been written by Nidderdale writer Nevin Ward, whose previous local history plays ‘The Dam Play’ and ‘Gouthwaite Hall’ have been very popular.

Mr Ward said the play won’t be at the playhouse but in a local church:

“We love performing in the playhouse, but while it’s closed for renovation, St Cuthbert’s is the ideal location – the raised central dais in the church lends itself to a large cast play where 20 actors play over 40 characters”.

Nevin Ward is well known for the music he incorporates into his works, and ‘Eugene Aram’  will include several songs, many of them written for the production.

‘Eugene Aram’ will be staged in St Cuthbert’s Church in Pateley Bridge from Tuesday 11 October to Saturday 15 October at 7.30 pm, all tickets costing £9. Tickets are on sale now and bookings will be from the website www.pateleyplayhouse.co.uk