And Did Those Feet, Octagon Theatre, Bolton.

Until October 20, Tickets 01204 520661.

I FELT like running on. It was like really being there. Wembley Stadium, 1923 and all that.

It's very rare a play sucks you in so much that you become lost in the lives of its characters, but And Did Those Feet, written by University of Bolton lecturers Les Smith and Martin Thomasson and specially commissioned for the Octagon's 40th anniversary celebrations, did just that.

Events unfold around the Wanderers' progress to Wembley and a Bolton family who all eventually make it down to London for the big day.

Martha Platt, played in a suitably endearing style by Hayley Jane Standing, is due to marry witty boyfriend Ted, brilliantly portrayed by Jeff Hordley.

There's a problem - ee by eck, the wedding's planned for t'same day as t'cup final.

It'll be all right though because the whole of Bolton, including the vicar, is off to London.

Ted's brother, Jim, spends his time dreaming of revolution on the streets of Bolton, but, despite political differences with Martha and Ted, and the fact that his Communist leanings see him out of a job, he will make it to their wedding and is determined to stand alongside his family at Wembley.

Paul Simpson adds a suitably cheeky touch to his character, and his banter with Jeff Hordley works superbly.

A special word must go to Martin Barrass, who, as newsagent Bob Stott, adds some great touches of humour as he walks to Wembley.

Chris Finch, whose character Billy has died in the war, and James Quinn and Susan Twist, as his parents Alf and Hilda, also deserve a mention for their great contributions.

The narration is also wonderful, with news clips and a lovely scene where the acting speeds up in time with the old-fashioned film reels adding special touches. Mark Babych's direction is spot on and the simple stage design doesn't detract from the action.

Local references and accents add to the warmth of the production, which gives you a real taste of life in the town back when the Wanderers' David Jack lifted the gloom for the down-on-their-luck mill workers with his cup final goal.

A wold premiere worthy of the name.