Owners of a north Norfolk hotel are defying the current economic downturn by adding an �80,000 extension.

Work is already under way to expand The Lawns Wine Bar and Hotel on Station Road in Holt, after its owners secured planning permission for two more bedrooms, in addition to its eight existing rooms.

The owners, husband-and-wife team Daniel and Sue Rees, both 64, said they were 'very happy' about the expansion.

'We are so pleased,' said Mr Rees. 'Considering we are currently in a difficult economical climate we are doing jolly well.

'During some of our busiest weekends we have actually been full up so the extra rooms are needed.'

The couple bought the authentic Georgian property in April 2006 with the aim of adding to the existing hotel business by creating a restaurant and a bar.

The duo bought the authentic Georgian property in April 2006 with the aim of adding to the existing hotel business by creating a restaurant and a bar.

Surprisingly not a listed building, it has had several modern additions over the years including the opening up of rooms, re-building fireplaces, adding a conservatory, extending the bar and decorating throughout.

The two new twin rooms will create the first of four more bedrooms planned for downstairs and the couple hope to add two new rooms each spring for the new two years - bringing the total to 14.

They couple came out of retirement to run The Lawns because they said they 'wanted a new challenge'.

Mrs Rees previously taught cookery at the Hewett School in Norwich for seven years as well as catering at Norwich's City College.

The couple are the former the owners of The White Horse at Blakeney, which they ran for 15 years, and they have also been involved with The Dun Cow at Salthouse, The Three Swallows at Cley and Bedford Street and Benedicts wine bars in Norwich.

The hotel is also home to the Holt Festival Club, which hosts events including a jazz evening annually in July.

Mr Rees emphasised the importance being involved in the community.

'We encourage locals to use the hotel too - that's what it's all about,' he said.

Building work will be completed by the end of spring and Mr Rees added it will make 'a significant impact on profitability'.

At least two part-time positions will become available, adding to the existing team of 10 employees, they said.

? For more information please email mail@lawnsatholt.co.uk or call 01263 713390.