A long-established Norfolk brewer will open its first pub in 50 years when it reopens the doors of an historic local.

In a partnership with restaurant entrepreneur Henry Watt, Lacons will open the Honingham Buck next Saturday.

Located just off the A47 between Dereham and Norfolk, the former 17th-century coaching inn has been closed for nine months.

It has been restored by its new owners and now features a new dining area, kitchen, toilets, disabled facilities and additional parking.

Next year, it will also offer accommodation with eight bedrooms, for which planning permission has already been granted.

Mr Watt, who reopened the Dun Cow on the A140 at Swainsthorpe as the SugarBeat and was the brains behind venues including The Wildebeest Arms in Stoke Holy Cross, said he could not wait to reopen the Honingham Buck.

He said: 'It's a beautiful pub and no matter how many people you speak to, someone has been there.'

The Honingham Buck, formerly known as Ye Olde Buck, was first called the Bell before it was renamed in the late 1700s after John Buck, the innkeeper mentioned in Parson Woodforde's diaries.

It sits in the heart of the village and when it reopens, it will boast Lacons multi-award winning range of ales.

Bosses at the Great Yarmouth-based brewer, which dates back to 1760, said they had decided the time was right for a new Lacons pub to open its doors.

Mick Carver, of Lacons Brewery, said: 'Lacons rich history dates back to 1760 and its pubs and ales were synonymous with the local community.

'The opportunity to work with Henry Watt in creating a community pub for today perfectly complements our vision for Lacons.

'Henry's reputation and passion for quality, which are captured in his vision for the Honingham Buck, make it the perfect choice for Lacons first pub in over 50 years.'

Are you reopening a much-loved community pub? Email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk