CASTING has been announced for the new musical adaptation of The Wind in the Willows.

The production arrives at the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, from November 10 to 20.

Fresh from his involvement in the touring production of Mary Poppins, West Stafford resident Lord Julian Fellowes has collaborated on this adaptation based on Kenneth Grahame's novel, which is on tour to Southampton before it opens in London's West End.

Comedian, actor and presenter Rufus Hound will star as the lovable menace Mr Toad alongside Irish actor and singer Fra Fee as Mole, Downton Abbey’s Thomas Howes as Ratty, EastEnders bad-boy and Shrek star Neil McDermott as Chief Weasel and Sophia Nomvete as Mrs Otter with further casting still to be announced.

The full cast will include Rakesh Boury, Courtney Bowman, Jenna Boyd, Abigail Brodie, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall, Nicole Deon, James Gant, Evan James, Graham Lappin, Michael Larcombe, Bethany Linsdell, Dylan Mason, Emma Odell, Ryan Pidgen, Patrick Sullivan, Karli Vale, Adam Vaughan, Georgie Westall and Holly Willock.

Julian Fellowes says: “This new adaptation has been such a joy to write, and we have pulled together a really marvellous array of extraordinary talent in casting the production.

"I’ve no doubt that our actors are going to have the time of their lives taking these memorable characters on the journey from page to stage. I hope and believe the audience will have a lot of fun!”

Contact the box office for tickets.