To some in Rutland and Stamford, Tom Johnson may be a familiar face due to his work as an undertaker and regular appearances with Rutland Musical Theatre. 

The Uppingham undertaker has been gifted a play entitled 'Last Orders with the Undertaker' which was written by local actor and writer Henry Dawe to celebrate Tom's 30th Birthday. 

The play explores Tom's use of humous to see him through the distressing times that accompany his work and encourages the families he works with to find light in the darkness of grief and loss. 

The radio play will be broadcast on Rutland and Stamford Sounds radio at 8pm, followed by a discussion of the play. 

The play has been voiced by Tom and Henry themselves, joined by Stamford-based actress Cami Carter. 

Speaking about the gifted play, Tom said: 'I was so very touched when Henry gifted me the radio play for my 30th birthday, inspired by the work I do.  

'As such, I was able to identify with the themes and messages that Henry had included, which made performing the piece all the more special. 

'It has been to have the opportunity to bring this off the page alongside Henry and Cami.'