Dramatic trial brought to life in final act for Stafford's Shire Hall

Stafford based Creative Arts Theatre, which has been behind numerous live theatre shows across the borough over the last 25 years.

For the last 10 years, they have used the historic Court Room at the Shire Hall to host live history productions of some of the most famous and dramatic court cases of all time.

Now, with the Shire Hall set to close next week, the group have said goodbye to the site with a take on the famous trial of William Palmer.

Palmer, also known as the Rugeley Poisoner or the Prince of Poisoners, was a Staffordshire doctor found guilty of murder in 1855 in one of the most notorious cases of the 19th century.

Charles Dickens called Palmer 'the greatest villain that ever stood in the Old Bailey' and it was up to the Creative Arts Theatre to bring his downfall to life.

Ken Tilley, who formed the group 25 years ago, said: "We had a very successful last run at the Shire Hall, with four sell out performances.

"It is a shame that we can't continue to do this, because the huge draw in terms of the crowds is the court room, it is perfect for what we do."

After being found guilty at the Old Bailey in London due to law chiefs believing there was no way he could have a fair trial in Stafford, Palmer was sentenced to hang at Stafford Gaol.

Thirty five thousand spectators crammed the streets of the town to witness the grisly spectacle – some spending the whole night in pouring rain to secure their place.

Mr Tilley said the live history shows have been such a success because of the public's attraction to crime and law when it comes to entertainment.

He said: "I think people are just attracted to the mystery, if something out of the ordinary has happened, they want to know how."