Les Dennis and Blake Harrison have been announced as the leads for End Of The Pier, a black comedy play launching at London's Park Theatre this July. The principal cast will also feature Nitin Ganatra and Tala Gouveia.

Penned by TV and radio sitcom writer Danny Robins, End Of The Pier focuses on a former national treasure who is reflecting on his fading career and embracing his dimming stardom. However, his life is upended by the surprise arrival of the nation's favourite young comedian.

The producers explain: "Bobby (Les Dennis) was once a household name with 20 million TV viewers - but now the laughter has faded.

"Resigned to a life of solitude and second-rate panto performances, his glory days are behind him. When Michael (Blake Harrison), the nation's favourite comedian, arrives at his door asking desperately for help to save his career, Bobby is unwillingly thrown into the limelight once again.

"A dark question lurks behind the laughs: What if, inside, you're not the person everyone thinks you are?"

Les Dennis came to prominence as a comedian in the 1970s after honing his craft on the northern working men's club circuit, and turned pro after a winning set on Opportunity Knocks. He went on to become a stalwart of Saturday night TV in the 1980s and 90s, notably hosting Family Fortunes between 1987 and 2002. His other stage credits include The Addams Family and Spamalot.

Blake Harrison, who is probably still best known as Neil from The Inbetweeners, has gone on from the hit sitcom to star in the 2016 remake of Dad's Army and TV series such as Todd Margaret. His stage credits include Step 9 of 12 at Trafalgar Studios.

The principal cast list is completed by EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra and Tracey Ullman's Show actor Tala Gouveia.

End Of The Pier will launch at Park Theatre (near Finsbury Park station) on 11th July, and will run to 11 August 2018. Info & Tickets