SINGER-songwriter Martin Heaton brings his own mix of contemporary folk, Americana and country blues to the Milton Rooms Studio, in Malton, later this month.

Martin, a regular performer at venues around the region, sings his self-penned songs of life and love, many based on personal experience, in a style influenced by his early listening to John Martyn, Bob Dylan and Richard Thomson.

He began writing songs more than 20 years ago when he decided that listening to music of the period no longer reflected his personal taste.

Martin then gave up his day job in local government to concentrate on a full-time professional music career six years ago and has steadily grown a musical following in local pubs and clubs, as well as travelling the length of the country to perform for new audiences.

“I’ve played guitar since I was a boy and played both solo and in rock bands over the years. It’s a joy to be doing something I enjoy so much and that appeals to an audience too,” said Martin, who lives in Pickering.

This will be a return visit to the Milton Rooms in less than a year for Martin.

“This is a great venue to play in – close, cosy and really connecting with the audience,” said Martin.

It follows his success at this year’s Bedale Acoustic Music festival where he won the song-writing award with his track "I Won’t Forget You When I’m Gone". He has also recently released his second CD “Stop What You’re Doing”.

“It’s amazing what a wealth of talent we have on our doorstep around Ryedale and we are delighted to welcome back Martin for what we know will be an evening of great music,” said Milton Rooms programme organiser Libby Pearson.

He will perform at the Malton venue on Friday, October 23. Tickets, priced £8, are available from the box office or phone 01653 696240.