Paint manufacturers like the Dulux empire are being challenged to help restore a world-famous Ilkley landmark.

Gallons of white paint are needed to help centuries-old White Wells live up to its name.

The Bradford Council-owned building - Britain's first hydropathic spa and now a caf - is in dire need of a lick of paint, but there is no money in City Hall coffers to pay for it.

So Ilkley historian Frazer Irwin, 52, has pledged to find a business or businesses who will help finance the job. He said: "It would be an ideal project for a company like Dulux to get involved with. It would be great publicity for them."

The outside of the building is now grubby and being encroached by moss and lichen. Mr Irwin plans to set up a website to appeal for help world-wide and has posted a notice on the building urging people to get involved .

"Bradford Council spent £20,000 refurbishing the inside of White Wells in the early 1990s but there is no money for the outside.

"It's a famous landmark passed by a quarter of a million people every year who walk on the moors or visit the town. It should be brilliant white not a dirty splodge."

White Wells is occupied by Mark Hunnebell who runs the caf.

He said: "We are responsible for the internal decoration so we are really pleased that Frazer feels so passionately about this and is trying to get the outside of the building sorted out."

Dave Parsons, countryside officer for Bradford Council, said the authority was responsible for maintaining the building and would greatly appreciate any financial assistance. White Wells is more than 250 years old and was used by Charles Darwin in the 1850s when he stayed in the town.

Anyone interested in helping should contact Mr Irwin on 07880 512111 or email ilkleym@hotmail.com.