AN EXCITING programme of events for the autumn has been lined up at Preston Guild Hall.

Speaking at the official launch for the new season, Simon Rigby, chief executive of the organisation which took over the running of the venue in October said: "We are creating a real sizzle about what is going on in this place, there is a real quality about what we are doing here."

The venue has set up its own promotions arm - Guild Promotions - which Mr Rigby said would become increasingly proactive in booking shows to appeal to a wide variety of audiences.

Marketing manager Hannah Slater added: β€œIt’s been fantastic to be able to focus on developing and promoting an exciting and credible programme of events to appeal to a wide and varied audience, not just in Preston but across the whole region.”

For the new season over 60 different shows, concert and events have been lined up and among the many highlights is the week-long run of the musical Avenue Q - a Broadway smash which combines Muppet-style puppetry and adult humour.

Other major stage productions include Father Brown and the Curse of the Invisible Man starring John Lyons, known to TV viewers for playing David Jason's sidekick in A Tour of Frost, The Addams Family Musical and the home-grown musical Stop the Train written by Rick Guard from Clitheroe.

Live music is very much to the fore with concerts by Bob Geldof, Midge Ure, the Proclaimers and Nils Lofgren all part of the programme.

Lovers of a good laugh will also find plenty to enjoy with a veritable who's who or the comedy scene lined up including Sarah Millican, Bill Bailey, Jim Davidson, Ed Byrne andNoel Fielding.

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic continues its long association with the Guild Hall and there will be performances of the ballet The Nutcracker and for big band lovers, the sound of the Glenn Miller Orchestra.

On the sporting front, former England cricket star Freddie Flintoff will be launching his UK tour at the Guild Hall in July and the Snooker Legends, Jimmy White, Ronnie O'Sullivan and Dennis Taylor will also be entertaining the crowds.

This December, Guild Promotions will be bringing some festive cheer to the venue with a home grown pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, starring comedian Phil Walker and CBBC Newsround presenter Hayley Hassall.

For details of the new season and to book tickets, visit www.prestonguildhall.com or call the box office on 01772 804444