THE “funny, poignant and uplifting” story of George Williams – the founder of the YMCA – is bring brought to Stourbridge this weekend.

Saltmine Theatre Company’s newest production, The Soul in the Machine, tells the inspirational true story of how hope can triumph in the midst of darkness.

Starting at 7.30pm on Sunday (September 25) at Chawn Hill Church, the play stars Thomas Frith as George Williams, a country boy who comes to London to find his place in the world.

He discovers gutters flowing with sewage, skies choked with smoke and the workers collapsing under the weight of the industrial revolution.

The story tells of his daring vision to invest in the physical, educational and spiritual well-being of his fellow workers.

Stourbridge News:

Photo: Saltmine Trust

Lesley Cheesman, chief executive of Christian charity Agape, said: “I had no idea what an inspiring, ground-breaking life George Williams led.

“Born out of deeply-held convictions shaped by his Christian faith, he championed a higher quality of life for workers and founded the YMCA movement, the oldest youth charity in the world.”

Saltmine Theatre Company is part of the Dudley Christian organisation Saltmine Trust, with the group believing in the power of theatre to enhance lives.

Since it was established in 1985, the company has been touring professionally in theatres, schools and churches across the UK.

Tickets for The Soul in the Machine, George Williams YMCA Founder, cost £10 and can be bought by calling the Saltmine Trust on 01384 454808 or Chawn Hill Church on 01384 397287.