There has been delight across Wharfedale and Aireborough after it was revealed the iconic home of Harry Ramsden’s Fish and Chips is being saved.

The decision to close its original branch in White Cross, Guiseley, late last year caused shock and anger among local people and politicians.

But now there is widespread delight after the announcement by the Wetherby Whaler it is to take over the restaurant and give it a £500,000 refurbishment and vowed to save the wooden hut where Harry Ramsden first served his fish and chips.

Pudsey MP Stuart Andrew said: “Following the sad news of the original Harry Ramsden’s closure in Guiseley, I was contacted by a large number of people from within the constituency and across the country, expressing their outrage that this Yorkshire institution would be closing its doors for good,” he said.

“I was therefore delighted to hear that the premises has been purchased by Wetherby Whaler, proving that this is clearly a profitable site for such a business in the Guiseley area. It is great to hear that the new owners will be restoring the building back to its former glory and I look forward to sampling their menu when it opens.”

His views were echoed by those of the three ward councillors for Guiseley and Rawdon.

Coun Pat Latty welcomed the new ownership: “Had Wetherby Whaler not stepped in, then another Guiseley landmark could have been lost and we would have been all the poorer for it,” she said.

Coun Graham Latty said: “I am delighted that Harry Ramsden’s building will continue to be a major feature and hopefully become the attraction it once was for Guiseley, “It is such a pleasure to have a commercial site that is going to continue rather than become just more houses. I wish them all the very best,” he said.

Coun Paul Wadsworth said: “I’m delighted that the long tradition of fish and chips being sold at White Cross in Guiseley is to continue, thanks to the intervention of the Wetherby Whaler Group.

“Everyone was disappointed when the original Harry Ramsden’s was closed late last year, but now we’re going to see £500,000 invested, in what will be Wetherby Whalers' flagship restaurant, to ensure that this famous site continues to provide quality fish and chips for people coming from far and wide.”

He also wants there to be a permanent reminder of the Harry Ramsden’s presence whatever happens to the building and the site in the future.

Aireborough Civic Society spokesman Clive Woods said: “This is a very pleasant, unexpected surprise. We feared that Harry Ramsden's would become history.

“Especially good is the news that they will preserve the wooden hut. It is the little things that give character to an area and a business.”