BUDDHIST monks have blessed a newly-opened Thai cafe by performing a series of chants and prayers.

The ceremony at SukanThai cafe in Albion Street, Cleckheaton, was performed on Saturday by Buddhist monks from the Watbuddharam Temple in Headingley, Leeds.

The occasion celebrated the launch of the new venture, which opened in December, and promises to bring happiness and prosperity for the future.

The monks started the ceremony with prayers and ancient Thai chants, before they began blessing the premises and guests with holy water.

The new café and takeaway opened in the centre of Cleckheaton at the end of last year, serving traditional Thai street food.

It is named in honour of owner Kiyara A-Roonchai’s 90-year old grandmother, Sukantha, who lives in Thailand and is her inspiration.

Diner Isabel Robertson, who attended Saturday's event, said: "The ceremony was very moving and the food a absolutely delicious."

A spokesman for the cafe said: "It was great to spend some time with new and old friends and to feel like we're in Thailand receiving blessings from the monks."