DEVON actor Finn Hanlon can draw on his own memories of growing up in the countryside for his latest role – in a stage adaptation of Michael Morpurgo's First World War drama Private Peaceful.

Finn, who grew up in Totnes, visualises Devon fields for his performance as Tommo Peaceful. Tommo is spending his last night recalling his childhood before facing the firing squad at dawn for desertion.

"He is remembering everything that has happened in his life so far," says Finn, 25. "His first day at school, his first love, the first time he realises his older brother is wonderful... and going to war.

"He went from a muddy background in the fields into a muddy war. We see him from a five-year-old boy to becoming a man. I play 25 characters – everyone he has ever met. He wants to remember everything just as it happens. When the memory becomes too much or it scares him, he just looks at his watch."

Private Peaceful has been adapted from Devon author Morpurgo's book by Simon Reade – both of whom will be in the audience at Exeter's Northcott Theatre on Sunday to see it performed. This is a one-man show, and Finn likes the idea that it has been stripped back to a minimal set with just a bed and a backcloth.

"I don't want props," he says. "I think it works best when it relies on your imagination. It does have a tremendous impact. He goes from a young, sunny character to screaming and crying.

"We've had an amazing response... standing ovations are a lovely thing!"

The chance of a standing ovation on Sunday are high – in the audience will be lots of family and friends, including his grandfather, who is celebrating his 80th birthday.

Sadly, the show is sold out – but try for returns at the box office on 01392 493493. The show plays Poole's Lighthouse (0844 406 8666) on April 4.