A dance studio in Ilkley which was gutted by fire is to re-open its doors this weekend.

The Joze School of Dance and Fitness will be officially opened by Hairspray musical star Leanne Jones after months of work to bring the premises back into operation.

Flames and smoke swept through the roof of the building on Grove Promenade on August 5 in the midst of renovation work.

Owner Jo Walters, who had taken over the lease only one month earlier, said she had been painting the changing rooms, not realising that the fire was smouldering away above her.

“Unfortunately, it took five hours to put out so it destroyed the reception, changing rooms, and the kitchen,” she said.

“The studio was filthy with ash and smoke. We had to have the windows open for two-and-a-half months even though it was not flame damaged.

“I didn’t realise quite how bad a fire could be.”

Four appliances were called to the building after the fire alarm sounded, forcing Mrs Walters and family members to flee the building. Nobody was injured.

Mrs Walters said the cause of the fire was still unclear but was thought to be smouldering pipes in the roof space. Heating engineers had been in the property earlier in the day.

Students have been carrying on lessons in a mix of temporary accommodation at the Clarke Foley Centre, St Margaret’s Church and Moorfield School for Girls in Ben Rhydding.

Mrs Walters said: “Some of the instructors have obviously had to find other work. The students have been fabulous, showing lots of support.

“We had beautiful cards from the children, they’re all so loyal.”

Stewart’s Lingerie, beneath the studio, reopened last month after a full refurbishment. Stock and fittings were destroyed after the ceiling collapsed and water poured in.

Owner Debbie Heeley said she was glad the studio was back up and running. “I do wish them all the best,” she added.

Leanne Jones, who is currently starring in Bradford pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk at the Alhambra Theatre, will open the dance studios at a champagne event at 6.30pm tomorrow.