THE opening of St George's Hall has been delayed AGAIN after damage to the ceiling was discovered following roof repair work.

Damage to the concert hall's ornate ceiling was discovered following the significant repair work to the roof as part of the £9.5 million restoration project which began in 2016.

It means that performances from comedian Sandi Toksvig and Buttershaw St Paul Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society's production of Made in Dagenham have had to be cancelled, with new dates offered to both acts.

The Hallé orchestra's performance has been moved to February 21.

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Movement in part of the ceiling was discovered in the Grade II-listed building, which closed in March 2016 for repairs to get underway.

It means the first event to be held at the refurbished venue will be a concert by multi-million selling recording artist Barbara Dickson on February 15.

Other performances headed to the venue include stand-up comedian Rhod Gilbert's live show, Canadian comedian Stewart Francis, ballroom dancing stars Anton and Erin, tribute shows to Tina Turner, The Eagles and Queen, children's favourites Zog and Milkshake Live, and a show by the Dreamboys.

Construction has been taking place at St George's Hall, built in 1853, for 18 months, with both the interior and exterior being painstakingly brought back to its former glory.

Adam Renton, general manager of Bradford Theatres, said: “St George’s Hall is looking great.

"The restoration is truly first rate and I don’t think it has ever looked better.

"This really does bring the facilities up to date and we are so looking forward to the brilliant shows that we’ve got planned coming to our newly refurbished facility next year.

“Due to the now slight delay in the venue’s reopening we are working with the organisers of a small number of events currently programmed for January 2019 and will be contacting ticketholders about alternative arrangements.”

A Bradford Council spokesperson added: “The inspectors have recommended that we undertake a further detailed survey of the ceiling to make sure that the building is safe for artists and members of the public before re-opening.

"We will be carrying this out as soon as possible, along with any work necessary.”