They both have many years' experience in the catering trade and Mr Matthews was already working for the restaurant owner, super chef Colin Rushmore.

When Mr Rushmore decided to retire and sell up after a catering career going back 47 years, the couple decided it was an opportunity not to be missed and next week they launch their new venture.

They plan to change the name to Number 14 High Street Restaurant but intend to continue to serve traditional and classic British food.

"We are just giving it a modern twist," said Mr Davey. "We are refurbishing and refitting the premises and will be opening for business from Wednesday."

Aged 22, he started work when he was only 13 as a pot washer at The Feathers, Dersingham. He spent three years at the Garden Restaurant, Knights Hill, working in the kitchens and organising functions, and then went to the Old Barn, at Terrington St John, before moving to Heacham.

His partner (21) also worked at the Old Barn, starting as a part-time waitress and then being appointed as bar manager and restaurant supervisor.

They plan to serve lunches and evening meals from Wednesday to Sunday with fish-and-chip specials for lunch on Fridays and traditional roasts on Sundays. Bookings are also now being taken for Christmas Day lunches.

"This is something we have always wanted to do and when this opportunity came we could not turn it down. This restaurant has always had a good reputation and we aim to continue that," said Mr Davey.