Stage and screen veteran Vanessa Redgrave has signed on to star in a new Bbc adaptation of author L.P. Hartley's 1953 novel The Go-Between.

The Howards End star's father Michael Redgrave portrayed Leo Colston in the classic 1970 film, opposite Julie Christie and Alan Bates, and now his daughter Vanessa will play the older Lady Trimingham, the part Christie took on in the original movie.

Downton Abbey star Jim Broadbent, who had an uncredited role in the 1970s film, will play Colston in the Tv movie, which will air next year (15).

Screenwriter Adrian Hodges says, "Our version of The Go-Between is a very different film for a new generation of viewers, but Vanessa's appearance will bring back happy memories of the gravity of her father Michael's performance.

"It is both lovely and moving to find Jim made his very first appearance in the movie. I couldn't be more flattered that these great actors are taking on roles that clearly mean a great deal to them."