An application has been submitted to change the use of the Rose and Crown in Thetford from a pub to a house.

In a letter submitted with the application to Breckland Council, the applicant states the building is 'lovely' and hopes to 'renovate and cherish' it for years to come.

The pub had closed between October and December 2015 after the landlord at the time, Keith Hewitt, died.

The pub's license was passed to his ex-wife and business partner, Heidi Hewitt, who reopened the pub.

The letter says the pub was offered for sale as a going concern first through a local estate agent and then at auction, but to 'no avail'.

It continues: 'The lack of business development potential with the confines of the existing building and small courtyard at the rear, together with limited parking severely hampered any future in the licensed trade.'

A decision will be made by May 12.