EUROPE'S most complete Victorian Turkish bath is set for a major refurbishment which will revitalise parts of the historic building unseen for decades.

A £300,000 scheme to improve Harrogate's Grade II* Turkish Baths – once the haunt of European royalty – is now underway and will be completed by August.

The borough council-led project is the result of months of design work and consultations with heritage bodies including Historic England and Harrogate Civic Trust.

Opened in 1897 the unique building features extravagant Moorish design, Islamic arches and elaborate painted ceilings, together with terrazzo floors and original fixtures and fittings. Of the seven 19th-century Turkish baths surviving worldwide, it is regarded as the most complete.

Manager Chris Mason said: "The baths are an iconic asset for Harrogate and known worldwide, so we are thrilled to make this investment.”