Hopes that The Bell in Marlingford near Norwich will reopen

Bosses of The Bell in Marlingford revealed the news in a brief post on social media on Saturday, which said: "It is with deepest regret that we inform you the pub will not be reopening until further notice."

The closure has come as a shock to people in the area with many hoping it can re-open soon.

The Bell at Marlingford announced its closure on January 6 (Image: Denise Bradley, Newsquest)

Paul Hammerton, vice-chairman of Marlingford and Colton Parish Council, said: "The pub has been the main social centre of the village for many years.

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"The current landlord and staff have been doing an excellent job creating a welcoming environment for villagers and it's become the real heart and soul of the village.

"At lunchtime on New Year’s Eve the pub was packed when it hosted a vintage tractor run.

The pub's statement said It is with deepest regret that we inform you The Marlingford Bell will not be reopening until further notice (Image: Denise Bradley, Newsquest)

"The closure has come as a real surprise to people, though it's clear that all rural pubs are facing serious economic challenges.

"For a village with virtually no public transport, having somewhere for villagers to meet is important and we are all hoping that the pub will be able to re-open soon."

There have been sightings of people still in the beer garden and people entering and leaving the Bawburgh Road pub since the announcement.

Richard Dixon, pub protection officer at CAMRA said It's always sad to see pubs closing (Image: Richard Dixon)

This newspaper has tried to contact the pub's management about the closure.

Richard Dixon, pub protection officer at Campaign for Real Ale (Camra), said: "It's always sad to see pubs closing, especially suddenly.

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"I'm not aware of the reason why this pub has closed, but hope that this is only temporary.

The Norwich Evening News has contacted the pub for more information (Image: Denise Bradley, Newsquest)

"Camra hopes that the spring budget will bring changes and a fairer tax system for beer and pubs as well as proper protection from the planning process, to make sure valued pubs remain as a community asset. 

"We'll help in whatever way we can to see the pub reopen soon."

The closure comes after nearby pubs The Swan Inn in Ringland and The Barford Cock also closed.

The pub was said to be the heart and soul of the village (Image: Denise Bradley, Newsquest)