The Portland Spy Ring operated in the 1950s and early 1960s; a highly successful group of spies working for Russia filtering British military secrets to the Kremlin. The final breaking of the Ring and the subsequent arrest of those involved is the basis for this play.

The Jackson family, Bob, Barbara and their daughter Julie, live a quiet life in Ruislip, West London until they are called upon to help in the unmasking of some of the spies – who happen to be their neighbours and best friends – the story is by and large true.

Jason Moore’s production is outstanding. It is one thing to have a good script, but that script needs a good cast and a guiding hand to bring out every nuance, keep the pace moving and the tension stretched for as long as possible.

Andrew Beckett’s set – the Jacksons' house is so authentic and along with the excellent costume designs of Jan Huckle, you just know what era you are in.

Steve Blacker-Barrowman’s Bob is a masterpiece of underplaying; his delivery of the final speech breaks your heart. Barbara is a happy housewife and mother who bows under the pressure of her own sense of betrayal; all perfectly captured by Bridget Lambert. Katherine Dodds is excellent in the small but very vital role of Julie; her outburst towards the end hits you in the pit of the stomach.

As the brash and loud Helen Kroger, Hilary Harwood exudes a charming eccentricity, but when the moment comes, the mask falls. Likewise as the quieter Peter Kroger, James Pellow shows the layers of the character with an ease, but with a chilliness which is uncomfortable.

As the civil servant investigating the spies, Simon Chappell is gentle and quietly spoken but his friendly demeanour is dropped at times - you are left in no doubt that his word is final. His two assistants, Sally played by Holly Ashman and Thelma by Rachel Fletcher-Hudson, provide fine support – the scene between Barbara and Thelma in Act Two is played with great sensitivity by the actors and digs at the emotions.

This was a brilliant play and a brilliant production. It is the best of this year’s Summer Season….. so far… and it is a treat for those who love a riveting story wonderfully realised. 

Next week stand by for Noel Coward’s ‘Private Lives’ which plays from 11-16 September. Tickets are available online via www.manorpavilion.com