LOVERS of ice cream were out in force to get an advance taste of treats to come when Skipton's newest bar and kitchen held a promotional event on Saturday.

Staff from Alexander's, set to open at at the top of Skipton High Street on Friday July 28, handed out more than 800 'gelato' ice creams from a tricycle in the grounds of Holy Trinity Church.

A £2.2 million refurbishment of the venue, at 4-6 High Street, on the site of the former David Goldie country wear shop, is almost complete.

The conversion has included a complete revamp of the terraced garden overlooking the canal.

A spokeswoman for Alexander's said: "It was a lovely, fun-filled day and the gelato is a taste of things to come! Alexander's is very much European-inspired and we are proud that this beautiful building has been restored to its former glory."

The venue, which will open seven days a week from 9am or before to 11pm, and longer at weekends, is the first restaurant venture for the Broughton Hall-based PEEL Entertainment Group.

The grade two listed building is believed to date back to the late 18th century and was formerly a doctor's surgery and home. It was occupied by Goldies for 35 years, until 2011 when it became the Russian Tea Room and then Forage Restaurant before being bought by its current owners last year.

Speaking to the Herald earlier this year, owner and managing director Susannah Daley said: "I fell in love with 4-6 High Street when I first came to Skipton in the mid-nineties. It’s an absolute dream to be able to give it a new lease of life.

"This is a real boost for Skipton - a five-star quality experience but with a relaxed, informal and welcoming feel."