FOR one night only, the doors of the former Marks & Spencer store in Darley Street, Bradford, will be opening for a special fundraising event in aid of a local charity.

The original Love Apple Cafe proprietors Pav Iqbal and Vic Brett are hosting a gathering to bring together once more the elements which made the Love Apple Café special in its time, and to be able to help a cause which is close to their hearts.

The event incorporating live music and entertainment takes place on Friday, May 19, from 7pm to 11.30pm and will be raising money for Bradford Nightstop, a charity which provides support and shelter for young homeless people.

Mr Iqbal said: "The Love Apple was a pioneering business, and was well regarded for providing a positive vibe and being the ‘Heart of the West End’ in its time.

"It’s now 20 years after it was conceived, and Bradford is a very different place to how it was then. The roller-coaster ride of politics and finance has caused many changes in the city, and for what seems to have been a very long time, there has been a distinct lack of creative energy in the city centre.

"I’m really heartened to see a revival in the top end of town over the last few years, with North Parade becoming a vibrant area for bars and the development in Sunbridge Wells bringing an interesting and historical space to life, creating opportunities for business and entertainment as well as employment.

"Hopefully this event will produce a buzz in the area and help to raise funds for a deserving charity organisation who work hard to provide solutions to the issue of homelessness in our city”

Two decades ago the couple had an idea to create a space where anybody and everybody, regardless of race, belief, gender, sexuality or disability would be welcomed in with genuine warmth to share great music, fresh food, delicious drinks, art, creativity and company.

They are now extending a cordial invitation to all who remember with fondness the 'good old days' of The Love Apple.

There will be two bars, a pop-up café, live music and other entertainment as well.

Tickets for the event, which will raise money for the charity, cost £5 and have to be purchased in advance at buytickets.at/theoriginalloveapplecafe/87535