MAKING a welcome return to Ross-on-Wye following on from his previous storytelling event when the doors had to be closed and a private party declared, is Tony ‘Monty’ Hirst.

Monty will be returning to the town’s Crown & Sceptre Inn on May 19 with more historical tales of the ‘cunning folk’ of the Forest which he gleaned from the pages of the Ross Gazette published in the 19th Century along with other traditional stories.

Monty said: "The response in March was incredible. We set out the chairs in the back room expecting an intimate storytelling show but we ended up taking over the pub."

Monty will speak about many extraordinary tales, including the cunning man of Covuztide and the leveller riots, topped off with an Irish droll and in a reference to the infamous tale from the Forest, he assures that the ‘bears’ will still not be mentioned.

Once again Monty will demonstrate that stories aren't just for children as this is another great opportunity for audiences who are tired of scrolling and haven't listened to a story since they were knee high to a grasshopper, to rediscover the joy of a story well told.

Monty is a traditional storyteller, currently based on the Isle of Wight, with family still living in Ross.

With regular solo shows around the country, as well as several sell out performances with folk duo, The AnyWhens, and appearances at open mics around Ross and at the Forest of Dean folk club he is bound to go down a storm.

Copies of ‘The Sin-Eater of Ross-on-Wye and Other Local Tales booklet which includes stories and articles that originally appeared in the Ross Gazette some 140 years ago, will also be available on the night.

Doors open from 7pm, with the first story being told at 7.30pm. Tickets priced £5, on the door, and in advance from montystoryteller.org.