Lee Evans has been lined up to star in the television adaptation of HG Wells' The History of Mr Polly.

Taking the title role, Evans will portray an ordinary man who attempts to find a way out of a loveless marriage and uninspiring life. When a suicide attempt fails spectacularly, he finally gets up the courage to go off in search of the life he really wants.

Executive producer Michele Buck said: "The History of Mr Polly is a beautiful tale about following your dreams and how you can alter the course of your life if you are brave enough to make the changes."

Directed by Gillies MacKinnon, the two-hour long drama will appear on ITV1 later this year.