THE top chef of one of York's leading restaurants today pledged that it would soon reopen - despite bailiffs seizing control of the premises.

Executive chef Kenny Noble told the Evening Press that The Blue Bicycle in Fossgate would reopen after a "blip" in its financial affairs had been sorted out.

He had taken down a sign posted by bailiffs giving notice of the termination of the lease on the property, and replaced it with another saying that it was temporarily closed, and reservations were still being taken.

Staff, suppliers and customers were shocked to discover the restaurant, estimated to have an annual turnover of more than £1 million, stopped trading yesterday after bailiffs changed the locks.

Mr Noble said discussions were taking place with landlord Anthony Stephenson, while more than two dozen staff had been reassured their jobs were secure.

"There are a lot of things in place we are trying to get sorted out with the landlord which are hopefully going to be resolved in the next couple of days," he said.

Customers with bookings are being offered tables at nearby restaurants, and Mr Noble said he would be taking reservations again from tomorrow.

A notice posted in the window by Leeds-based debt recovery firm P&B Collection Services alleged the restaurant's lease had been terminated for non-payment of rent.

The notice, addressed to business owners David Rose and Sarah Brownbridge, said the landlord could re-enter the property if rent was not paid.

Robert Onyett, of Harrowell Shaftoe solicitors, who the Evening Press understands is acting on behalf of Mr Stephenson, visited The Blue Bicycle yesterday.

He said: "It is a very difficult situation. It is not open."

Dave Leedham, a partner in nearby Tricksters Lane restaurant, said: "When any restaurant closes it's sad, but to see one of such quality suffer it is even more so."

Frankie Conroy, who owns Frankie C's in Walmgate, said the closure of The Blue Bicycle would be a blow to all of the restaurants in the area.

Maria Rish, owner of Rish in Fossgate, said she was shocked and saddened.

Updated: 11:20 Thursday, April 10, 2003