THE UK’s largest outdoor walkabout theatre event returns this summer when The Dukes takes over Lancaster’s Williamson Park from next Friday, July 3, with a new version of Dickens’ classic story - Oliver Twist.

Fagin, the Artful Dodger, Nancy, Bill Sykes and Mr Bumble will lead the audience on a journey through the magical open-air setting of the picturesque park transformed into Dickensian England with a northern twist.

Along the way, they will see orphan Oliver thrown out of the workhouse and dragged into the park to be sold to the highest bidder but hidden deep in the woods, Fagin and his gang of tricksters and scoundrels lie in wait, living a life of adventure.

Oliver is played by Jerome Thompson.

The young actor was born in France and grew up in Nairobi then Hyderbad and he now lives in Peckham.

His television appearances include the BBC's Watson and Oliver, and he's featured in several films and theatre productions, such as The Screaming Man and Separation both for NoZone films, The Tempest (Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory) and a national tour of The Piano Man.

Since 1987, The Dukes has established a national reputation for producing outstanding outdoor theatre.

Adapted by Coronation Street writer Debbie Oates and directed by Joe Sumsion, Oliver Twist runs until August 15.

Performances start at 7.15pm.

Box office 01524-598500.