Green, Whatley for ITV1 period drama

Robson Green and Kevin Whatley have signed up to star in a new ITV1 period drama.

The one-off film, titled Joe Maddison's War, follows shipyard worker Joe (Whatley) who feels past his prime and too old to serve in the war. His problems then escalate when his wife leaves him for a younger man.

Green will play Joe's friend Harry, who releuctantly agrees to join him as part of the Home Guard.

Writer Alan Plater said of the film: "Joe Maddison’s War splices three elements: solid historical research; half-remembered family folklore and gossip; and a lot of simple old-fashioned invention.

ITV's Sally Haines added: "We're delighted Alan Plater has written this very personal piece for ITV. It's a poignant and witty script and it's fantastic to bring Kevin and Robson together onscreen for the first time."

Filming on the drama is due to begin in the North East in March 2010.