A £150,000 dream to turn a former doctor's surgery and motor bike showroom into an exclusive wine bar and bistro has captured the imagination of Wharfedale Observer readers.

As we revealed a fortnight ago, Otley businessmen Vernon Marston, Malcolm Hughes and John Barber plan to open the wine bar and bistro by the end of April, after gaining planning permission.

But they have been unable to come up with any names for the business, which will be based opposite Otley Police Station. They asked Observer readers for their suggestions - and there has been a tremendous response to their plea.

Among those who wrote with ideas is the former secretary and practice manager to Doctor J T Rhodes' practice, which was in the building.

Mrs Rosemary Oxley, of Burley-in-Wharfedale, said: "Dr Rhodes joined Dr Galloway, the founder of the original practice, in the late 1930s. He spoke with much affection of his employer who used the whole house as his home and surgery.

"He was one of the first people in Otley to own a car, having originally used a horse and hansom cab.

"How about calling your new wine bar Galloway's? It's an attractive name with an historic slant."

Mrs Vie Haller, of Sunnydale Crescent, Otley, suggested the name 'Smith's'.

She wrote: "It is simple, easy to say and remember, but mainly because of the building's connection with a very well known and well loved Otley family- it was the Smiths. Brooklands family home for years.

"Many older people will remember The Jersey Dairy which was situated in Westgate and owned and run by the Smiths. Like the Barber family in Otley, they were a household name, everyone knew them and had great respect for the contribution they made to the community. Smith's would be a great name."

Mrs Haller also suggested that Mrs Bea Kelly (nee Smith and daughter of the family) be asked to perform the opening ceremony.

Mrs Kelly, a former head of drama at Prince Henry's Grammar, is now a professional actress who has appeared in series like A Touch of Frost, Emmerdale and Casualty.

Mr Ian Mitchell of Mount Pleasant, Guiseley, suggested the name Chequers.

"This links the former car showrooms via the chequered flag of motor racing to the black and white elements of the Otley coat of arms," he said. "The name is also complemented by the uniforms of the police officers in the station opposite, as well as suggesting exclusivity and class."

His other suggestions include The Bridge or Bridge Club, The Boathouse or Boaters.

L D Burrow of Inglewood Estate, Otley, suggested six possible names - Wharfe Bistro, Trio Bistro, Rue De La Pont Bistro, Bistro De La Pont, Bistro Monterieux and Bon Appetite.

And Mandy Rook, of The Whartons, Otley, suggested Pillion, JB's, Doc's, Quack's, The Grill and Fryer's Tuck.

If any other readers have suggestions for a name for the new establishment, there is still time to send them in. Address your ideas to John Baron, Wharfedale Observer, 9 Orchard Gate, Otley LS21 3NX.

The suggestions will be considered by the partners and, if they decide on one of the names featured above, the winner will get a meal for four worth up to £100 at the bistro.

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