WAR HORSE is a play you never forget.

It’s hard to believe that despite a brilliant cast, this production by the National Theatre relies for its success on a collection of leather and wood.

These materials are miraculously brought to life by the Handspring Puppet Company to form an animal of war with several other war horses, a goose and a couple of vultures thrown in for good measure.

Joey, the war horse is designed by Basil Jones and Adrian Kohler, not only to take your breath away as a craft, but to win your heart.

Adapted for stage by Nick Stafford and based on a book by Michael Morpurgo, War Horse tells the story of Joey’s original owner - Albert Narracott - who joins up at 16 to find his beloved steed through the mayhem of the first world war.

Albert is sensitively portrayed by Thomas Dennis and Jo Castleton takes on the equally moving role of Albert’s caring mother, Rose.

But nothing these two, or the rest of the 34-strong cast, can do, can reach your emotions like Joey and his puppeteers.

You are struck by the terror of an animal who rears in horror at the perfectly portrayed sounds and flashing lights of battle. He’s an innocent creature unable to understand the meaning of war.

A century after the end of the Great War, War Horse still reaches hearts and there aren’t many dry eyes around at the end.

This a five star, super star of a show.

*War Horse is at the Lowry until Saturday, June 30 with a relaxed performance for sufferers of autism at 2pm on June 28.

For tickets, telephone 0843 208 6000.

Star rating: *****