TAKE the family on a rip-roaring musical ride along the road of friendship as The Wind in the Willows arrives at The Courtyard.

Kenneth Grahame’s unforgettable story of Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad was inspired by his upbringing on the banks of the Thames and he first created the characters to entertain his young son Alistair. What began as a bedtime story has left Grahame’s picture of a pre-war rural England fixed in the national consciousness.

The adventures that ensue as Ratty, Mole and Badger try to keep up with their irrepressible friend Toad have entertained generations .

The bond that they share, despite their very different personalities, provides valuable lessons in the importance of friendship in navigating life’s problems.

When Mole plucks up the courage to explore the riverbank with his friend Ratty, nothing can prepare him for the adventure that awaits.

Along with Badger and Mr Toad, the foursome career from one exploit to the next, ending in a battle not only to save Toad Hall, but their very way of life.

To book for Talking Scarlet’s production of The Wind in the Willows, which runs from Tuesday until June 12, call the box office on 01432 340555 or visit courtyard.org.uk.