NOT for the faint-hearted... that’s the warning as Hamble Players rehearse their latest production, The Haunting of Hill House.

The play, adapted by F Andrew Leslie from the novel by Shirley Jackson, is a chilling and mystifying study in mounting terror, and is not suitable for children under 12 – or those who are easily scared.

The story centres on a brooding, mid-Victorian mansion, widely known as a place of evil.

A motley group of strangers gather in the parlour at the start of an exploration into the mysterious events that have happened in its history.

The learned Dr Montague conducts research into supernatural phenomena and plans to write a book about his findings at Hill House.

He has invited Eleanor Vance and Theodora, two women renowned for their psychic experiences, to assist him. Luke Sanderson, a member of the family who owns Hill House, is also present. Hill House will be his one day and he, too, is keen to unravel the mystery surrounding the property.

It has driven previous inhabitants to death and madness in the past – will it have the same effect on this new group of visitors?

The play will be performed at Hamble Village Memorial Hall, Hamble-le-Rice, from Tuesday, September 23 to Saturday, September 27. Doors open at 7pm.

For tickets in advance, please visit ticketsource.co.uk/hambleplayers.