Four years ago Michael Stewart was joint winner of the BBC Alfred Bradley Award for new play-writing.

But the play he submitted was deemed unsuitable for broadcasting on national radio in the afternoon slot.

Tomorrow, however, a 45-minute comedy by the Bradford-based playwright is being given an airing.

Excluded is set in a failing comprehensive school in Bradford. The action takes place during an Ofsted re-inspection that could result in closure.

"This is my response to Alan Bennett's History Boys. It was well-written but not part of my world," said Mr Stewart.

When he was a schoolboy in Salford, Manchester, he was expelled for a year at the age of 12 for stealing a bike. He left 20 years ago and since when schools have changed out of all recognition.

"I spent three days in three Bradford schools. I have been careful not to identify them in the play - which is a comedy: nothing's funnier than other people's despair, unfortunately.

"There were CCTV cameras and lines down corridors for walking on the left or the right. I interviewed five students. Some of them were very forthright and honest.

"I am pleased with the production. Director Gary Brown has done a cracking job."

Excluded can be heard tomorrow at 2.15pm on Radio 4.

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