A POWERFUL gothic tale of suspense and suggestion will be staged by the New Hardy Players.

Wessex Tales Live! presents The Withered Arm in the evocative surroundings of Ashton Barn, close to Martinstown, near Dorchester, on Thursday October 26, Friday October 27 and Saturday October 28.

These three performances over three days tell the tale of a young bride, a wronged woman, a mysterious affliction and a desperate remedy.

Thomas Hardy’s equivocal tale of potions, medicines, superstition and conjurings is one of his most intriguing and thought-provoking stories.

It has been described as a moral tale as well as a gothic story giving a snapshot of life in rural south west England.

The story was originally published along with others in the collection Wessex Tales.

This work has been adapted by Sue Worth, and is directed by Andrew Munro and Sue Worth.

This New Hardy Players production features Emma Hill as Rhoda Brook, and Amelia Chorley as Gertrude Lodge.

The musical score is by Alastair Simpson.

Each day’s performance closes with light refreshments followed by country dancing in the barn with the acclaimed Tatterdemalion and caller Angela Laycock.

No previous experience necessary, and it’s a lot of fun!

This play will be the first in a series of Hardy Short Stories in Interesting Places held in collaboration with Dorchester Arts.

n The Withered Arm by Thomas Hardy, Ashton Barn, Martinstown, near Dorchester. Performed on Thursday, October 26, Friday, October 27 and Saturday, October 28.

Call Dorchester Arts box office for tickets or get them in person at the Corn Exchange (weekdays 10am - 4pm) or go to the Dorchester Arts website dorchesterarts.org.uk