A £2m overhaul of a famous Ilkley inn will create 40 jobs for people in the area.

The Cow and Calf, which closed its doors when major improvements got under way last autumn, is to reopen on April 20.

Bosses at the inn - now owned by brewery giants Bass - say it will now serve food until 9.30pm seven days a week.

Landlord Paul Spedding said the majority of the jobs, including chefs, kitchen assistants and catering staff would be full-time.

Facilities for disabled people will be on offer at the Cow and Calf, which will also function as an hotel with 16 bedrooms.

Mr Spedding said: "It's a particular joy for us to come back to an area where we once worked and take on the new challenge of managing such a superb inn.

"Nothing has been spared in getting the Cow and Calf back to its former glory and we know that locals and visitor will be impressed with the style and friendly atmosphere of the place.

"We are delighted to play our part in improving the employment situation here in Ilkley."

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.