The owner of a cafe which was gutted by fire says she is looking forward to serving turkey and all the festive trimmings to her regulars - next March.

Glenys Ratcliffe has run Bingley's popular Myrtle Park cafe, known as Bunter's Place, for the past 15 years.

In September the building, which is next to the bowling greens, was torched by arsonists and now work is underway to bring it back into shape.

"It's very upsetting. Normally at this time of year I would be serving Christmas lunches," said Mrs Ratcliffe.

"Initially I had hoped to be open for Christmas but there was so much damage it just wasn't possible."

The blaze, which was started by a lighted taper pushed through the letterbox, caused £40,000 of damage.

The front door has now been replaced and it does not have a letterbox. "I'm having the post sent to the post office or my home address as I don't want to take any risks," said Mrs Ratcliffe.

"I'm planning to be back in business in March and will be having a grand opening with a Christmas dinner and a party.

"I'm missing seeing my regular customers, especially at this time of year, and I hope they will all be there to see the new building."

Mrs Ratcliffe said she would be redecorating the cafe in the New Year and replacing tables and chairs which were destroyed. She would like to hear from anyone who has any spare or second-hand cafe or dining room furniture.

Bradford Council leases the building to Mrs Ratcliffe and structural work, including re-plastering, has been carried out by the Council's recreation department.

"Bunter's Cafe has been completely refurbished as it was badly damaged by fire," said a Council spokesman.