THEATRE students from Portishead tested out a coffin which is due to take centre stage in the school s latest production.

THEATRE students from Portishead tested out a coffin which is due to take centre stage in the school's latest production.

Pupils studying AS Level Theatre Studies took delivery of an essential prop courtesy of Peter J Connell Funeral Directors, in Cabstand.

Michael Sheers, a year 12 pupil at Gordano School, in St Mary's Road, called on the Portishead Funeral Directors to ask for some assistance for their forthcoming production called 'The Memory of Water' by Shelagh Stephenson.

The action of this black comedy is focused around a funeral and students felt very strongly that a real coffin was vital for authenticity.

Jo Skuse, who works at Connell's, said: "I was happy to discuss the students needs with the young man and we are delighted to donate the coffin to the Gordano School drama department.

"It is a gift from us and the students will be able to keep it in their props department for future use."

The play will be performed in the school's drama studio on April 3.