AFTER playing tough cop Jimmy McNulty in downtown Baltimore, Dominic West can now look forward to the more tranquil surroundings of Dorchester Abbey.

The star of American detective drama The Wire has also appeared in the BBC series The Hour and as serial killer Fred West in the ITV drama Appropriate Adult.

He also won praise for his performance on stage earlier this year as Iago in Shakespeare’s Othello and stars opposite Rebecca Hall in the ghost movie The Awakening.

Now the actor is to read poetry and prose at the Coming of Christmas concert at the abbey on Thursday, December 8, at 8pm.

The concert is being organised by Hft, better know as Home Farm Trust, whichsupports people with learning disabilities and their families.

The concert is now in its 17th year and has been staged at Dorchester Abbey since 2000.

Music for evening will be provided by New College Choir, conducted by Edward Higginbottom, while the abbey is bathed in the light of 1,000 candles.

The national charity’s fund development manager Hilary Colbert said: “Dominic read for us in 2008 and when I asked him to do the same again this year he texted me back saying ‘love to’”.

“He is a fantastic reader and his profile as a serious actor has grown since 2008 – we are delighted that he has agreed to take part.

“The concert will help Hft to continue to offer opportunities to more people with learning disabilities throughout Oxfordshire.

“The average amount we raise each year is £11,000 which is a real boost for the charity and the work we do. This is a wonderful celebration which has been enjoyed for many years and I’m certain that there will be another very special night this year for people to remember.

“The money raised at the concert, which is usually attended by about 500 people, will go towards our projects in Oxfordshire.”

At Milton Heights resource centre, near Abingdon, the charity runs catering courses for adults with learning disabilities.

And in Banbury, the charity is converting two large houses into apartments.

Hft works with 1,400 people with learning disabilities across the UK and with 4,000 family carers through its Family Carer Support Service.

Harriet Walter, who has appeared in a variety of dramas including ITV’s Law & Order:UK, was due to read with Mr West, but she is no longer able to attend.

Ms Colbert said: “For one of the readings you need a man and a woman so I am looking for a well-known actress to take Harriet’s place.”

Last year, Mr West read at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign’s Spirit of Christmas carol event at Christ Church Cathedral in Oxford.

The campaign’s Sophia Bellamy said: “He is very generous with his time.”

Tickets for the Dorchester Abbey concert cost £20 and include refreshments.

The doors open at 7pm with the concert starting at 8pm.

For further information email Hilary Colbert at hilary.colbert@hft.org.uk