DEMOLITION work has begun on the site of a former family pub and restaurant.

Planning permission was granted last year to demolish The Generous Pioneer in Ilkley Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale, to make way for a 70-bed care home and 42 retirement apartments.

The pub closed its doors for the final time in January when Greene King Pubs said: "We would like to thank both the team and all of our customers who have visited the pub over the years."

The McCarthy Stone Retirement Lifestyles Ltd development will see a 70-bed care home in a three-storey building and 42 retirement apartments housed over two separate three-storey buildings. The development also includes 60 car parking spaces and landscaping.

On the social media site Facebook residents have expressed their sadness of the change of use this week.

David Foster said on Facebook: "Some many happy little memories in this place."

Maz Jennings said on Facebook: "So sad to see it go after working there for 7 years with mostly awesome people."

Steph Hardisty added on the social media site: "Its sacrilege such a shame."

Fears have also been expressed that children could be in danger by playing on the building site.

Carolyn Hayhurst posted on a local residents' Facebook site: "Sorry to post this but I feel duty of care to share to all parents of young people who are out and about enjoying the light nights.

"Please please warn your young people of the dangers of climbing over the fences into the Generous Pioneer site.

"I’ve just seen a young person walk through the partly demolished buildings. I couldn’t get close to call them away but they have thankfully now left.

"I’m sure they were just interested to see it but I can’t bear to think of any potential accidents happening."