The mastermind behind Malton’s pantomimes for more than 30 years has been honoured by the theatre company he so ably helped to keep on the map.

Known to countless Ryedale performers and audiences across the decades as “Mr Panto”, John Coates was awarded the Fred Bower Trophy after the final performance of Malton & Norton Musical Theatre’s 60th anniversary panto, Robinson Crusoe And The Pirates.

Around 300 people in a packed Milton Rooms gave a visibly moved John a standing ovation last weekend when he accepted the award from honorary vice president, Sue Hawes.

John directed 24 pantos for the former Malton & Norton Amateur Operatic Society between the 1970s and 2003 and was the guiding light behind many of its long-running stars, in particular his good friend Fred Bower, the legendary Malton dame, who died in 2003.

John also took lead roles in major musicals such as My Fair Lady and Fiddler On The Roof during his long association with the company.

Sue said: “John was always committed to a family-orientated society and that was one of the reasons why Malton had been so successful over the years.”

In reply, modest John said: “The thrill lay in the pure enjoyment of being together and having a good time.”

Further honours on the final night were presented by chairman Gemma Williams to Katie Hammond, who won the Ena Smith Trophy for dedication shown by a young member, and to Georgia Chapman, winner of the Best Newcomer award. Meanwhile, Malton & Norton Musical Theatre singers old and new are gearing up for the February 3 re-launch of regular Tuesday singing sessions in Malton.

“The aim is to fill the gap between our pantos and revive the four-part chorus music that made the society a byword for singing excellence in the past,” says publicist Tom Todd. “The response so far has been overwhelming and we’re hoping for a good turnout and some great music.”

The sessions will be held in the Parish Rooms in Spital Street, Malton, at 7.30pm each Tuesday. “They’re just for fun with no shows or concerts in mind, initially at least,” says Tom.

Music from shows old and new has been earmarked by musical director Chris Holmes, supported by pianists John Minford and Vivien Wilcock, Tom himself and fellow company member David Ackroyd.