Couples hoping to tie the knot but looking for something a bit different are being given an alternative to the Las Vegas wedding chapel clich� - thanks to a pub in Hemsby.
Couples hoping to tie the knot but looking for something a bit different are being given an alternative to the Las Vegas wedding chapel clich� - thanks to a pub in Hemsby.
Locals at the Lacon Arms will soon have to share the bar with newlyweds when it opens up its own wedding chapel, complete with chandelier, stained glass windows and, of course, the all-important aisle.
The pub will also provide a bridal suite and something that no amount of money can buy - a seaside setting for the wedding snaps.
Lorna Bevan Thompson took over the pub last year with brothers Lewis Bevan and Lyndon Bevan and hopes the chapel will be completed around autumn and help bring new trade into the area.
Lorna, who is involved in organising the Hemsby Viking festival and whose family have long run businesses in the area, said: 'Hemsby has been a focal point for the many generations that come here, as well as the residents, and I thought it would be lovely for families to celebrate here.
'And it's all about investing back into Hemsby and keeping it alive.'
There have already been a few tentative enquiries for the wedding chapel, which would be part of the pub which is currently not used.
Approved by borough planners, the wedding chapel forms part of a major renovation which will see a new restaurant, lounge and bedrooms and represents an investment running into hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Anne McNellan, 46, had originally hoped to be the first blushing bride to exchange rings in the chapel, but settled for a reception at the pub last month after marrying her partner of 29 years, Alex.
She thought the chapel could have a great future.
She said: 'For those coming on their holidays, and local people I think it would be wonderful. Why, if the weather is good, go anywhere else?'
The Evening News has through our Love Your Local campaign been highlighting the need for people to support their local pubs or risk them closing.
To see previous stories from our campaign log onto www.eveningnews24.co.uk/loveyourlocal.
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