Former Hollyoaks actor Barry Sloane has landed a theatre role alongside The Office and Pirates Of The Caribbean actor Mackenzie Crook.

The 28-year-old, who played psychotic Niall Rafferty in Channel 4's teen soap, has been signed to appear in a Jez Butterworth's play Jerusalem, taking on the role of bearded country hardman Troy Whitworth.

Crook, meanwhile, will play Johnny Byron's friend and partner in crime, Ginger.

Speaking exclusively to DS, Sloane said: "I'm really looking forward to meeting and working with Mackenzie Crook. I've been brushing up on my Bristonian and although I miss working in soap, I can't wait to getting back on stage."

Jerusalem is a dark dramedy depicting modern-day life in the Wiltshire countryside. The story revolves around local waster Johnny Byron (Mark Rylance), who continues to juggle his children, drug habit, housing problem and alcohol dependency until his troubles reach a head on the day of the country fair.

Sloane begins rehearsals on Monday, June 8, and the play can be seen at the Royal Court Theatre from July 15 to August 22.

The actor last appeared on stage as Sammy in Blood Brothers at Christmas 2007.