PLAYWRIGHT Danny Clifford raised hundreds of pounds for the British Legion with his first play.

From Heaven to Hell honours the sacrifice made by local heroes at the Battle of the Somme, and was recently nominated for Best drama at the Manchester Fringe awards.

The play was written by Danny, from Alderley Edge, and made its debut as part of the Greater Manchester Fringe Festival.

It is dedicated to the 24 officers and 650 men from the 1st Salford Pals who fought at the Battle of the Somme, where more than one million men were wounded or killed.

In the first 30 minutes 21 officers and 449 men from the Salford Pals became casualties.

From Heaven to Hell starred Danny, and raised nearly £800 through ticket sales and donations.

The play offers a fictional account of a group of friends from Salford during the First World War, following the joys and sorrows of their lives against a backdrop of conflict and violence.

Danny, 34, said: “I’m overwhelmed and moved by the success of the play and the generous donations we received.

“The play honours the bravery and loyalty shown by the people of Salford during The First World War, and I’m grateful I could pay tribute to them and bring their story to a new generation.

“Salford raised four battalions, more than many larger cities. It’s a contribution that should never be forgotten.”

The play focuses on the horror of the battlefield and its impact on those left at home, waiting for news.

Danny added: “It’s been an amazing experience writing, producing and starring in my play. I’m still pinching myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.

“I was lucky to have the support of Sue Jenkins, one of the best directors in the business and my fantastic cast and stage management. They did the Salford Pals proud.”

Danny is the son of actor Keith Clifford, best known for his role as Billy Hardcastle in Last of the Summer Wine.

Danny is next on stage from November 21 to December 2 in a new play called Noir, at the Kings Arms in Salford.