I ATTENDED the stage production of 'Morning Departure' in Horrabridge. I must congratulate the Horrabridge Cavaliers on this production. This was an ambitious subject to take on and not really a usual subject for a village audience to be fully conversant with.

As a submariner I must congratulate their presentation as being very lifelike and it followed the original story very well, albeit in 1940 rather than 1950. The stage at first looked a bit spartan but as the play unfolded it proved itself perfectly.

I liked the visits back to the 'shoreside' offices and the petty red tape problems that prevented instant response, thankfully the 'Submiss' organisation that is in place now is almost faultless.

The actors played their roles very well and were very close to what life was like on a 'diesel boat'. A little bit more research could have been carried out on the subject of uniforms and dress which was too modern.

All in all, very well done; at times I sat there with my eyes shut and imagined it happening for real.

I believe that this play could very well be suitably performed in the Wharf where it could be honed to perfection with a much more comprehensive set and a bigger audience catchment area. I would willingly give my technical advice if the play was thus presented in the Wharf as I once served on HMS Tiptoe which in fact was used in the making of the film which starred Sir John Mills.

Thank you for a good evening's entertainment.

S J McQueen

Bere Alston