A COLCHESTER show inspired by the death of one of its writers has raised thousands of pounds for a cancer charity.

Saddle Sore was shown at the Headgate Theatre from April 3 to 5 and saw sold-out shows every night. 

The performance, which was inspired by a story about a man who was cycling around the country raising funds for cancer charities after a terminal Prostate Cancer diagnosis, has raised more than £3,000. 

All the money generated from the event will go towards Prostate Cancer UK, which fights to help more men survive prostate cancer and enjoy a better quality of life by supporting men living with prostate cancer, prostate diseases and the effects of treatment. 

Kevin Topple, one of the show's writers, said: "We first performed the one-act play in October 2022 for four sold-out shows and raised £900 for Prostate Cancer UK.

"Because of the overwhelming response to the play, we decided to extend to do a full-length play and performed it at the Headgate Theatre.

"Again the response was overwhelming and we raised £3,000 for the charity."

Ian Hornett and Kevin Topple wrote the play to raise awareness for prostate cancer after Ian's father sadly passed away from the disease.

Kevin said: "The audience reaction to the longer play was such that we have been asked to perform it at several other venues including Laxfield Village Hall on July 13, the Manifest Theatre, Manningtree on August 23 and 24, and a couple of other venues."