ONE of the UK’s best-known scientists, a string of theatre groups, and a clutch of comedians are heading to Otley Courthouse.

The arts venue has just announced an autumn-winter programme packed with major figures from the worlds of drama, comedy and academia.

Doctor, scientist and TV presenter Professor Robert Winston, who will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Otley Science Festival in November, is one of the stand-out names that have been confirmed.

Others include comedians Stephen K Amos and Jan Ravens, and BBC and Channel 5 historian Suzannah Lipscomb.

There will also be a wide variety of theatrical offerings, ranging from family-friendly performances from the Topsy Turvy Theatre Company to a one-man show from Edinburgh Festival regular, Pip Upton.

A Courthouse spokeswoman said: “Once again we have managed to jam-pack this season with a great variety of music, comedy, theatre, talks and family shows, from a variety of award-winning artists.

“One of the many highlights of this season’s programme is the fact that this year is the tenth anniversary of the Otley Science Festival.

“So, we have pulled out all the stops and are thrilled to announce that Professor Robert Winston will be attending this year’s event with his talk Modifying Humans: Where Does Genetics Stop?”

Visit otleycourthouse.org.uk or call (01943) 467466 for further information.