One of the county's best-known historic theatres may not open again for public entertainment.

Harrogate's Royal Hall has been closed over fears for public safety after part of the ceiling collapsed.

The theatre has already been found to be suffering from serious structural problems including eroding concrete and water seeping into the building.

Two years ago the theatre's upper circle was closed after structural problems were discovered.

Now part of the ceiling in the south corridor has collapsed leading to the closure of the Grade 2 listed building.

Lottery Fund

The National Heritage lottery Fund offered �6m towards restoration of the Royal Hall on top of �1m raised locally

Paul Lewis, director of the Harrogate International Centre, which runs the theatre, says all events at the hall have been cancelled.

Efforts are being made to relocate future events.