Asbestos confirmed at Scarborough Spa

The blow comes at the start of the summer season show starring Leeds comic Billy Pearce who is headlining the main production being staged by leading impresario, Tony Peers.

Jo Ager, the general manager of Scarborough Spa, said the possible identification of asbestos had been found in a panel in the ceiling. "It is being dealt with by experts and in the best interests of our staff and customers."

She said the theatre will remain closed while investigations are carried out. "In the meantime we are working to re-locate planned events to other areas of the Spa."

Ms Ager said the Spa Orchestra concert season would not be affected but the Billy Pearce Sow will be relocated to the Grand Hall along with another season-long production, "Movies Meets the Musicals" also staged by Mr Peers.

"We are welcoming patrons to the Spa as he rest of the complex remains open as normal. We are looking forward to another good summer season of shows."