One of Ilkley's most famous landmarks in is need of some tender loving care, according to a local historian.

Frazer Irwin, 52, is appealing to local businesses to help him in his bid to restore White Wells, on Ilkley Moor, to its former glory.

The building, which has looked down onto the town for more than 250 years, was Britain's first hydropathic spa and still attracts hundreds of visitors every year. But now the famous white walls are in dire need of a lick of paint and the building requires extensive repair work.

"White Wells desperately needs dealing with as it is in a terrible state," said Mr Irwin, of Queen's Drive. "I'm looking for someone - either an individual or a company - who would be willing to stump up the cash or offer their services to deal with the problem. It will be a great advertisement for whoever does it as so many people visit White Wells each year."

The building was last painted three or four years ago, but now needs a major overhaul - Mr Irwin claims i's last one was in 1973.

Bradford Council, which is responsible for maintaining the building, is backing Mr Irwin's bid. Dave Parsons, Countryside Officer for Bradford Council, said they would greatly appreciate any financial assistance with the project.

He said: "We are aware that White Wells needs a face lift and in the last few months we have had various estimates to see how much the work would cost. Eventually the work will get done but there is a shortage of funds so if local businesses feel they would benefit from sponsoring the renovation then that would be very welcome. The building needs quite a bit of repair work plus stripping of all its paint, re-pointing, sealing and repainting - estimates so far suggest a cost of around £3,200. Any work carried out would have to be approved by the council."

Mark Hunnebell, who runs the cafe at White Wells with his partner Joanne Everall, said that he was delighted with Mr Irwin's idea. "We are responsible for the internal decoration here so we are really pleased that Frazer feels so passionately about this and is trying to get the outside of the building sorted out." Anyone interested in helping should contact Mr Irwin on (07880) 512111 or email ilkleym@hotmail.com.