A WEST  Devon company is helping to bring the charismatic and controversial South West artist Robert Lenkiewicz back to life.

Lenkiewicz, who had his studios on the Barbican in Plymouth, is well known for his works of the city's vagrants and street people. Although he enjoyed popular acclaim the works of the former Royal Academy artist only received greater recognition by the art establishment following his death in 2002.

Now the artist is having his life story turned into a play — The Man in The Red Scarf —which will be staged at the Barbican Theatre in Plymouth in December.

Lenkiewicz was instantly recognised by his flowing locks and beard. It is these prominent follicle features which link the play with Brentor-based company Browns More Hair Now Ltd as the firm has won the commission to create the beard and wig for actor Robert Cargill, who will play him on stage.

Jojo, executive producer of New Street Productions, who are staging the play, said: 'It's a professional production and from the very start we knew it would be necessary to make the actor playing Robert resemble the artist as closely as possible.

'To achieve this we decided we would have to have his hair made to order and after going out to tender, Browns won the contract — they offered the best quality service for the best possible price.'

Kim Brown, of Browns More Hair Now Ltd, is the fourth generation of her family in the company, which was founded in 1896.

She said Browns prides itself on providing the 'personal touch' when it comes to customer care, client counselling, advice and support.

More used to designing their own range of wigs for those who lose their hair as a result of medical conditions they nevertheless excelled themselves when it came to Robert's wig.

Kim said: 'Making the wig and beard was an incredible task.  With Lenkiewicz being so recognisable, it was important that we stayed true to the man who had such presence and a unique look. 

'Cutting and styling the wig and beard was a task taken on by David Brown and Linda Allington.  Both the wig and beard were worn during the cutting and styling and several photographs of Robert Lenkiewicz were used as reference. 

'The finished wig and beard look incredible and are a work of art in their own right.'

To see the 'work of art' in action The Man in the Red Scarf is running from December 9 to 20. Tickets are available from the Barbican Theatre's box office on 01752 267131.

The producers are hoping the play will go on to national success. It might even be that the wig and beard made by Browns More Hair Now of Brentor could be making an appearance in next year's Edinburgh Fringe!