The new owners of a boarded-up pub in Thorpe St Andrew remain tight-lipped over its future.

Eastern Daily Press: The Griffin Pub at Thorpe St Andrew when it was open. Photo: Bill SmithThe Griffin Pub at Thorpe St Andrew when it was open. Photo: Bill Smith (Image: Archant � 2011)

London-based asset management company Marlinspike confirmed it was behind the recent purchase of The Griffin pub, on Yarmouth Road.

The once-popular premises was put up for sale by Ei Publican Partnerships last year, sparking fresh concerns about its future.

Gary Leigh, a director at Marlinspike, said the company was still 'working up ideas' for the site.

He added: 'Nothing is going to happen in the short term.'

When asked whether the premises would remain as a pub, Mr Leigh said: 'anything is possible at this stage.'

In its heyday, The Griffin would see coach-loads of customers turn up for a drink and bite to eat.

But today, the boarded-up pub is a shadow of its former self.

Speaking about the condition of the premises last year, Joanna Francis, who is the daughter of the pub's former landlords, said: 'It is really quite sad because back in the day when mum and dad ran it, it really was a busy pub.

'During the Great Yarmouth races we used to have up to 10 coaches full of people turn up.

'I hope I am wrong, but it is a two acre plot and I do understand what is happening around Norwich in terms of development.

'I just really hope it doesn't happen there.'

Marlinspike's website states it has worked on a variety of projects in joint venture with banks, fully listed property companies, high net worth individuals and family offices.

Its previous projects have included the transformation of large-scale office space into residential accommodation.

Richard Dixon, pubs protection officer for the Norfolk branch of the Campaign for Real Ale, said: 'We don't want to see the loss of another pub. If a planning application does go in, we will be looking out for it and putting in an objection.'

Over the past decade, various landlords have tried to make a success of The Griffin, with one even turning it into a Tapas-themed restaurant.

According to Norfolk Pubs website, the premises was recorded as the Griffon in 1789.

Its name was then changed to the Griffin & Pleasure Gardens in 1888.

Almost 100 years later it became the Gunga Din's Old Colonial House, before being named The Griffin in 2000.