A pub located exactly half way between Norwich and King’s Lynn, and that bears the nicknames of their two football teams, faces an uncertain future.
The Canary and Linnet in Little Fransham, which has a sign depicting Norwich City and King's Lynn Town players, closed in August.
Despite being put on the market with a price of £350,000 the former pub still stands empty and forlorn beside the busy A47.
The pub was once a popular stopping-off place for coach loads of travelling football supporters and holidaymakers.
Locals said they feared the detached, brick-built building could fall into disrepair unless it finds new landlords.
Fraser Ely, of Manor Meadows, said: “No-one likes to see businesses closing down but I imagine the running costs made it very difficult. Rural pubs are struggling.
“Ideally it will reopen as a pub. There is nothing else in the village. But it wouldn’t surprise me if someone bought it to build new houses.”
Fred Garnham, who lives opposite on Main Road, said: “I didn’t go in much as I thought it was expensive and didn’t cater to my tastes. I’m a pie and a pint sort of bloke.
“I’m not surprised it struggled for custom as the A47 here is terrible and puts people off crossing to get to it. A lot of people around here are retired in any case and more likely to stay at home with a glass of sherry.
“I think the best thing would be for the site to be turned into housing.”
Keith Rallison, who lives on Station Road, said: “It used to be really popular with coach parties and football fans but that’d really dropped off in recent years.
“I didn’t go much myself but I would like to see it reopen. It would be a huge shame if it just stands empty and derelict.”
The Canary and Linnet dates back to 1954 when the licence of the former Chequers pub on Beeston Road in High Green was transferred to the current premises.
The freehold is being advertised with vacant possession for the pub which boasts a traditional bar area, restaurant and three-bedroom accommodation with a private garden.
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