STEPTOE and Son began as a one-off play, The Offer, in the BBC's Comedy Playhouse slot.

So its transfer to the stage is a natural progression, if a little overdue: the last TV series finished more than 30 years ago.

Regular repeats have kept this comedy in the hearts and minds of the British public. Long after the rag-and-bone man disappeared from our streets, Steptoe's brilliant writing and acting ensures the show is as funny and poignant as ever, even for the eBay generation.

It is a wonderful coup for York Theatre Royal to land the stage premiere of such a well-loved comedy, co-written by creator Ray Galton.

All we need now are two performers skilled enough to step into the shabby boots of Brambell and Corbett - and another to slip into the four worn shoes of Hercules the carthorse.

Updated: 10:06 Tuesday, July 05, 2005