WORK is underway to transform a former dessert diner into a burger restaurant 'with an exciting new theme'.

Swirly Joe's in Silver Street has closed and is being renovated into a new burger restaurant.

Beef and Bird owner Yasin Ahmed has bought the site and is turning the diner into a sit-down burger restaurant. 

Renovation is currently taking place on the site and Mr Ahmed said he is excited to welcome diners.

Diners will not have to wait too much longer as the new restaurant is expected to open in six weeks. 

The 33-year-old said: "The building is about 200 years old and even comes with an original fireplace. 

"We want to keep old features of the building whilst enhancing it with 21st-century trends. 

"We are creating a jungle theme for the restaurant. We're extending our takeaway locations into a sit-down location."   

The new jungle-themed burger place will become an extension of popular takeaway Beef and Bird by giving customers the option to dine in and eat their meal. 

Diners have heaped praise on the Beef and Bird takeaway on Midland Road.

One TripAdvisor reviewer said: "The food at this place is delicious.

"Order was taken promptly, and the food was made to order, so was piping hot when brought to the table. We waited a mere 10 minutes for the food.

"The chicken burger was moist, the skinny chips perfectly cooked, and the dark chocolate bbq chicken wings were a surprisingly delicious extra. All guests were so pleased with their food. We will most definitely be visiting again."

However, the new restaurant also intends to attract early risers with a breakfast menu which includes pancakes.

But its burgers and wings will be a staple of its menu throughout the day. 

Swirly Joe's launched in 2017 and specialised in serving fresh waffles, milkshakes, sundaes, sweet crepes and afternoon tea. 

The dessert diner became popular among school students and families but shut its doors last year.