THE empty Claire Whitaker shop on Skipton High Street is about to reopen - as a chocolate shop.

Michelle Nye, who has worked with one of the major food retailers, will open her new venture during the first week of February, in time for Valentine's Day.

And it will keep the name Claire Whitaker.

Michelle said: “I’ve always wanted my own chocolate shop and when the shop became available it was too good an opportunity to be missed. It’s such an iconic shop and I’m delighted to carry on the tradition of selling chocolates to the community of Skipton and its visitors.

"As it’s a such a well-known historical landmark on the High Street, the Whitaker family have granted permission for me to use the old shop's name and hopefully Claire Whitaker Chocolates will now continue to serve the public for many more years to come.

"The shop will be refitted and I want people to enjoy the new surroundings and to receive warm and friendly service. The emphasis will be on a range of quality chocolates and confectionery including products from local artisan chocolatiers. The shop will also cater for customers with special dietary requirements."