A CLASSIC fisherman's story and some ghost tales to chill the blood provide an atmospheric double-bill at Guildford's Mill Studio.

The Compleat Angler, on November 25 and 27, is Izaak Walton's celebrated tale of a fisherman's fight with his prey, set during the English Civil War.

But while Piscator sets his bait and discusses the art of fishing and the best pike recipes, we are also given an insight into the life of a disappointed man.

"The Compleat Angler is not about how to fish, but about how to be," said novelist Thomas McGuane.

"Walton spoke of an amiable mortality and rightness on the earth that has been envied by his readers for 300 years."

Award-winning playwright Louise Page has adapted the book for a cast of two.

Haunted, on November 26, features a group of friends gathering together for an evening of ghost watching.

They begin to recount stories, delving further into the realms of fear, until finally they, and the audience, make a truly frightening discovery.

The play is based on the work of M R James, who is described as "the Conan Doyle of ghost stories".

His subtle style, easing readers into unlikely stories of revenge, sorcery and murder, has made him one of the most renowned writers of Victorian gothic fiction.

Both plays are at The Mill Studio, Millbrook, Guildford, with performances at 8pm.

Tickets, costing £10, are available from the Mill Studio/ Yvonne Arnaud box office on 01483 44 00 00.