THE queen of folk, Maddy Prior, opens her new UK tour at Malton’s Milton Rooms on Wednesday, March 16.

More than 40 years from her first appearance on the late 1960s folk club circuit, Maddy remains one of the most enduring, influential and respected artists in British music, most notably as the lead singer of Steeleye Span for many years.

Others may claim the invention of folk-rock, but Steeleye were the first to drag it into the electronic age with their unique fusion of folk and rock in the seventies.

In the era of the giant rock band, Maddy and the group took folk music out of the backroom clubs and into the charts with a string of hit albums, gold discs and world tours.

Her beautiful voice has continued to explore different musical avenues over the years both as a soloist and band member and she has also developed her talents as a fine songwriter. Maddy performs with groups such as the Carnival Band, on solo work and alongside other legends of folk music including June Tabor and Martin Carthy.

Now with new musical partners Giles Lewin (who plays with Maddy in the Carnival Band) and young accordion player Hannah James, Maddy’s Malton show promises music from clogs to kletzmer, both traditional and new, all delivered in her own unique style.

“This promises to be a musical treat for diehard fans and those who may not have had the chance to see her before. Maddy’s singing is as delightful today as it ever was and it’s great that she has chosen the Milton Rooms to kick off this nationwide tour,” said event organiser Brenda Stott.

Tickets, priced £16 (£12 concessions), are on sale at the Milton Rooms box office or by phoning 01653 696240.