A car smashed into a historic pub at Ingham, near Stalham, late on Tuesday night, leaving a gaping hole in the main wall. A woman has been charged with a series of offences, including drink drinking and will appear at Cromer court on May 24.

A car smashed into a historic pub late on Tuesday night, leaving a gaping hole in the main wall.

The Swan Inn at Ingham, near Stalham, a popular 14th century pub and restaurant, was closed today because of the incident, although it could be back as soon as tomorrow if builders can make the structure safe.

Landlord Paul Thomas said a white Vauxhall Astra hit the pub at around midnight.

“It went straight through the wall of our 700-year-old pub,” said Mr Thomas. “The pub has been left with a gaping hole in it.

“There is quite a lot of damage, but with the right work on it we hope to be open again on Thursday, although it will not be with the full service.”

A woman has been charged with a series of offences, including drink driving, and will appear at Cromer court on May 24.