I READ with great disappointment the news that Garry Cooper and Nick Bagnall have resigned from the Milton Rooms over artistic differences.

Malton desperately needs anchors to promote the town that will engage locals and encourage visitors.

The emphasis on food is proving to be a success but not unique in the country. Artistic productions are by their nature unique and the direction Nick and Garry were taking (and hopefully can be persuaded to carry on) would have been to bring forward noteworthy productions – as they already have.

Anyone who went to the Henry’s either in York or at Towton as I did yesterday (Sunday) will have seen the talent the town is on the brink of losing.

I have assisted the Milton Rooms by doing sound balance for various productions and have seen them grow. I urge the Milton Rooms management committee to do whatever it takes to find a way so that both Garry and Nick can return to the Milton Rooms after they have finished the run of the Henrys.

I truly hope the towns of Malton and Norton will not lose out – both Garry and Nick are major talents who have given freely of their time and lead a tiny dedicated team who have brought The Milton Rooms from being a grandiose village hall to producing professional productions of world-class standard.

Artistic differences? They, Garry and Nick, are experts!

Jeremy Powell, Malton