The Black Horse Inn at Castle Rising opens for business today
Taking over the reins at Castle Rising's The Black Horse Inn which reopens today is a long-held dream come true for its new landlord.
Harry Sutton describes running a pub as being in his blood as he is the fourth generation publican in his family, who have all played a major part in supporting his ambitions.
He said: "Without their support none of this would have been possible. A special thank-you goes out to my aunt, Caroline Payne, and my late uncle, Eamonn Payne, who passed away earlier this year. They both supported me in every possible way and this new venture in our lives will be a legacy to him."
Harry's father, John, is his business partner, and helped his own parents, John and Pat Sutton with the running of The County Arms at Terrington St Clement. This pub was also run by Harry's great-grandparents, Fred and Stella Ishmail.
Harry, who was previously deputy manager of The Feathers at Dersingham, said The Black Horse Inn, enjoyed an idyllic setting in a picturesque village and he wanted it to become a traditional family pub at the heart of the community.
As of 5pm today the pub will have its bar open daily with food service due to be launched at the end of the month.
"There is an enormous opportunity to develop the food side of the business and we will be introducing a streamlined and stylish menu. We are going to be a gastro pub with traditional English classics but also offer tantalising dishes on the specials menu. We will ensure that this pub is 'the place to go'." said Harry.
"We shall be hosting special events throughout the year to reflect the seasons and also plan to have beer and gin-themed festivals."
In recent months the pub has been renovated with much of the work being carried out by two of Harry's good friends, brothers Steve and Liam Kerr, of Kerr Construction in Dersingham.
"They have transformed the pub to an amazing standard and given the building a new lease of life," said Harry.
"We now have an open theatre kitchen, which has been refitted with new appliances throughout. There is also new lighting and it has been redecorated to give a welcoming, homely feel."
