SKIPTON MP Julian Smith paid a visit to Settle where he dropped in on a number of businesses to see how they coped during the coronavirus pandemic and as the country starts to return to normal.

He visited Settle Victoria Hall, which opened in 1853 and is believed to be the oldest surviving music hall in the world.

It runs a wide ranging programme of events, including theatre, comedy, live music and community events, and over the last few months has been able to continue hosting performances using its new outdoor spaces.

Mr Smith also visited other businesses, including Ye Olde Naked Man Cafe in the Market Place, an independent family run bakery and cafe, where he had a bite to eat for lunch.

He said: “Settle has so many brilliant places to visit from delicious bakeries, cafés and restaurants to the stunning one of a kind Settle Victoria Hall.

“North Yorkshire is rich in history and I would recommend people visiting some of these attractions if they have not done so already.”

New to Victoria Hall are Miss Victoria’s Refreshment Gardens which are open from April to September; and Miss Victoria’s Emporium. The emporium is a charity shop with a difference, not just a cornucopia of vintage and pre-loved clothing, collectables and curiosities, but also a showcase for local artisan crafts.

To find out about upcoming events, visit: settlevictoriahall.org.uk