A well-known Norfolk pub and restaurant is under new management – but regulars don't have to worry about it being changed that much.

When Raghu Kodak Andala took over the Hainford Chequers, locals told him they liked the pub as it was, and he has heeded their advice.

The pretty thatched roof pub/restaurant, which had been managed and owned by Carol and David Howard for around 20 years before they retired, has built up an enviable reputation for the quality of its food.

Regulars also like the friendly ambience and country atmosphere, so the new leaseholder took their advice not to change much, and has just tweaked a few things at the popular inn, which is in Stratton Road just off the main A140 Norwich to Cromer road.

These changes include extending the opening times at lunch.

He said: 'Locals love it the way it is and told me not to change much so I have heeded their advice.

'I want to keep it as a quality food venue with first preference for local produce and suppliers, and it also gives employment to locals.

'It will also be open for conferences and meetings, and the popular New Year's Eve party, which has been going for years, will also continue.'

The Chequers is the latest acquisition for Mr Kodak Andala's progressive small pub company which has other sites in west Norfolk, including the Ostrich at Castle Acre and the Five Bells in Upwell, and he also runs the Lakeside Country Club in Lyng.

He said that punters who frequented the other venues would be able to take advantage of discounts at the Chequers.

The pub has a long history and was destroyed by fire on December 1, 1987. It was rebuilt including the thatched roof. The Evening News has been urging punters to return to pubs in our Love your Local campaign.

To see more stories from the campaign visit www.eveningnews24.co.uk/loveyourlocal.

Have you just taken over a Norfolk pub? Call reporter David Bale on 01603 772427 or email david.bale2@archant.co.uk.