The Crown in Fakenham will reopen tomorrow night, Friday, February 10.

Management of the historic former coaching inn has been taken over by Alie Hannam, the former assistant manager, who also runs Sugar and Spice shabby chic gift shop in the town.

She has been busy putting in new carpets, curtains and bar to give the premises a fresh new look.

She said: 'It's looking amazing - all new decor. Onwards and upwards for me and my fantastic team and friends. We've been so lucky to have so much local support. Can't wait for the opening night.'

The Crown, a landmark building in the Market Place, has been closed since New Year's Day but two weeks ago Ms Hannam revealed she had signed the lease and vowed to give all the staff their jobs back.

'I had to give it a go,' she said, adding that she plans to serve bar meals in the first instance and then open the restaurant later in the year.