The effects of the fire are still being felt by the Tavern, Harrogate Cricket Club's bar and restaurant, which lies on the site of the St George's Club ground.

Since the loss of the club pavilion, which was burnt to the ground in an arson attack in May, custom has dramatically fallen.

This, said chef Chris Durrant, is because many people believe the brick-built Tavern was also lost in the fire.

Dinners

He said: "The loss of the pavilion has been huge but contrary to public perception, the structure of the Tavern was unaffected.

"We took over management of the venue hire last year and had lots of bookings from wedding receptions and birthday parties through to private business lunches and evening dinners.

"Since the fire, many people have assumed that the Tavern building went up in smoke at the same time as the pavilion."

Despite the extensive damage caused to the pavilion in the blaze, the Tavern survived the fire unscathed.

Alert

Before the fire, it was a busy and popular venue with its Sunday lunches and room hire for parties.

Staff are now preparing for what is usually its busiest season in the run-up to Christmas, and are working to reinstate its status.

"Trade has definitely suffered as a result so we are having to work extra hard to alert people to the fact that we are still available to book for all types of function," said Mr Durrant.

For more information visit www.harrogatecricketclub.com or call Chris Durrant on 07931 345150.