It is the favoured haunt of Royals and celebrities, set in one of Norfolk's most desirable villages.

But villagers at Great Massingham, near King's Lynn, fear fire could break out if the Dabbling Duck is allowed to continue using a field as a temporary car park.

The parish council says there is "significant concern regarding the potential fire risk" in its objection to West Norfolk council, which has been recommended to approve retrospective plans.

Eastern Daily Press: The Dabbling Duck at Great Massingham wants to continue using a field as a temporary car park, despite villagers' fears over fire riskThe Dabbling Duck at Great Massingham wants to continue using a field as a temporary car park, despite villagers' fears over fire risk (Image: Matthew Usher)

"Parishioners have raised concerns that combustible materials such as discarded matches, cigarette butts and vehicles parking nearby may significantly increase the fire risk to crops within the field if we are to continue having the forecasted very dry summers."

It says 2022 saw a number of "devastating disasters" after field fires spread to homes.

It adds: "The parish council would not like to see such an incident occur in the centre of Great Massingham which would be devastating and would have a significant effect on many properties within the centre of the village."

Eastern Daily Press: Villagers in Massingham are fearful of fire riskVillagers in Massingham are fearful of fire risk (Image: Chris Bishop)

READ MORE: What makes Great Massingham one of Norfolk's best villages to live in?

A report to councillors says 20 objections have also been received, along with one letter of support.

The pub's agent said the field would be an overflow car park which would be used "as and when it is needed". The pub has been using it since 2022.

Eastern Daily Press: The Prince and Princess of Wales sometimes drop in for Sunday lunch at the Dabbling DuckThe Prince and Princess of Wales sometimes drop in for Sunday lunch at the Dabbling Duck (Image: PA)

As well as locals and second homers, the Dabbling Duck's clientele includes the Prince and Princess of Wales, who sometimes tuck themselves away in a quiet corner for Sunday lunch.

Sir Alan Sugar, said to be a fan of the pub's mussels, has been known to drop in by helicopter for lunch.

Eastern Daily Press: Sir Alan Sugar has flown in to Massingham in his helicopter for the mussels at the Dabbling DuckSir Alan Sugar has flown in to Massingham in his helicopter for the mussels at the Dabbling Duck (Image: PA)

ITV weather presenter Lucy Verasamy has also been to the pub in the past, recommending the location to her ITV colleagues.

Last year, the pub was described as "a local gem" by the Good Food Guide. 

West Norfolk's planning committee meets to discuss the plans on Monday, February 5.