AN OTLEY business that was ravaged by fire is celebrating making a full recovery.

Futurist's premises in White Swan Yard, off Boroughgate, were badly damaged by the blaze last September.

The fire, tackled by firefighters from five different stations, left the sound and lighting specialists - who also promote theatre shows - facing a major rebuilding challenge.

About half of the firm's base was damaged and much of its equipment destroyed.

Director Jamie Hudson, however, insisted at the time that his team would not be disheartened and instead would 'crack on' with the recovery process.

The business - which has rebranded its lighting and sound equipment work as Hudson Creative - is now back to full capacity and Mr Hudson said he was delighted with how it has bounced back.

He said: "The fire was a devastating blow.

"Our equipment is highly sensitive to smoke and water, and consequently 90 per cent of it had to be replaced.

"We were very fortunate that we have understanding customers who were prepared to wait for us to get back on our feet - which is fantastic."

The company was also helped by its building's owner, Otley builder Richard Houldsworth, who wasted no time in bringing the property back to top condition.

And they were assisted by the nearby White Swan whose manager, who had raised the alarm after spotting the fire let Futurist move its office to the pub as a stop-gap measure.

Mr Hudson said: "It’s taken nearly six months for the company to get back to full trading capacity and in doing so we have rebranded our lighting and sound side.

"We’ve re-branded to Hudson Creative which gives us a fresh new corporate identity in the ever increasing events market, while our theatre production company still remains Futurist Productions."

The firm also recently announced details of its plan to convert Otley Civic Centre, which has been closed since 2010, into a performing arts academy for young dancers, singers and actors.

Futurist’s forthcoming productions include a Frankie Valli tribute show by The Ragdolls at Yeadon Town Hall on Saturday, April 15th and A Night at The Musicals which will run at Otley Parish Church and Yeadon Town Hall in July.