A former Green Party candidate at the General Election will star in a 'special' romantic play as part of the Leytonstone Festival.

Ashley Gunstock came third competing for the Leyton and Wanstead constituency in May with nearly 3,000 votes, but has now announced his return to the stage.

The English teacher and activist is working hard with theatre company Poetic Justice to create an English translation of the Italian play Scàmpolo.

Scàmpolo tells the adventure of an impoverished Roman street girl teetering on the brink of adulthood who is determined to outwit predatory men from a 'higher' social class.

Mr Gunstock, picked up a copy of the renowned director Dario Niccodemi's play on his honeymoon in Italy and admits it is close to his heart.

He said: "For me, this is a very special moment. We are really delighted to have sourced so much local talent and are pleased to have received the financial support of the Leytonstone Festival Association."

"Next stop is the West End."

The performances take place on July 9 and 10 at 7.30pm, upstairs at Tommy Flynn's pub in High Road, Leytonstone.

Tickets are £5 on the door.