THE Milton Rooms in Malton is preparing to reopen next week with a varied programme is on offer to welcome audiences back.

If all goes to plan the venue will be able to reopen under Covid-safe restrictions on May 17.

Music fans are well catered for with rock, pop and indie with a healthy dollop of the blues, a fascinating talk on the secret messages hidden in flowers in Victorian times and even the magical comic talents of a Britain’s Got Talent star.

Starting the ball rolling on Friday, May 21 is multi-talented musician Martin Gough’s One Man Rock show, featuring rock, pop and indie music from a wide range of artists from the Sixties to the present day. Sunday, May 23 sees a fascinating talk from the Dickens Society taking a light-hearted look at the meaning of flowers and how the Victorians loved sending secret messages in a well-chosen bouquet – and how certain flower messages applied to some of the author’s favourite characters.

Another change of pace follows on Thursday, May 27 with the return of the popular Ryedale Blues Club, featuring Dr Bob & The Bluesmakers. Then on Saturday, May 29, Mandy Muden Magic rolls into town. Mandy‘s appearances on the 2018 Britain’s Got Talent series won critical acclaim from both judges and public alike and she is coming to the Milton Rooms with a brand new show, packed with her razor sharp wit, magic tricks and plenty of mind-reading.

On into June shows include Taphouse Burnout, the Hilarity Bites Comedy Club, Old Herbaceous and Ryedale Blues Club.

Venue manager Lisa Rich said: “We’ve been working hard behind the scenes renovating the Milton Rooms and there are exciting plans for the future. We have had our Covid-safe certificate extended by Visit England and we are really looking forward to welcoming back audiences both old and new.

"Initially ticket sales will be restricted because of Covid regulations, so people are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.’’

For more information visit www.themiltonrooms.com