Worcester's Huntingdon Hall has announced a diverse programme of music and spoken performances for its new season, including a visit from magician Paul Daniels.

Mr Daniels brings his comeback tour to the venue in mid-March in a show said to blend anecdotes and magic.

Other highlights include a show made particularly poignant after the death of George Harrison. The Backbeat Beatles play in late January exploring the group's early years in Hamburg.

Offering enlightenment about the universe and space exploration, astronomer Patrick Moore gives a new lecture, First Contact, exploring the chances of alien life.

Singer Judie Tzuke, best known for her ballad Stay With Me 'Til Dawn and eight top fifty albums, plays the Hall in March.

Two giants of the British folk scene also play the venue in March when Norma Waterson, described by MOJO magazine as "possibly the greatest English singer alive today", and Martin Carthy, the talented guitarist and singer, team up.

As part of the '80s revival, one of the biggest groups of the era return when the Christians, of Ideal World and Harvest for the World fame, perform acoustic versions of their hits in late-March.

One change in the programme is the withdrawal of Bob Geldof from his concert in February due to a touring commitment in Germany.

On a more cheerful note the Barron Knights will perform a fundraising concert for the venue on March 23.

Esther Blaine, Hall assistant director, said: "It's a great programme that's already selling well. There's something for everybody in it."

The box office is on 01905 611427.