New beginning for Chequers Inn of Bressingham under new identity

A new chapter in the history of Bressingham’s lone public house began this week when it re-opened as a restaurant with a new identity, following several years of closure.

After being shut to customers for about four years, the Chequers Inn in Low Road was reborn on Tuesday, under the name 1066 At The Chequers, as a bar, restaurant and retail outlet, run by veteran hoteliers Michael and Hazel Knox-Johnston.

It brings an end to years of uncertainty surrounding the business’ future, following a protracted planning saga that resulted in the owners’ initial planning application to turn it into a bed-and-breakfast being rejected amid heavy opposition from villagers.

But after the owners opted to follow the wish of residents and make it a food-and-drink establishment, Mrs Knox-Johnston said there were “plenty of people who can’t wait for us to open” again.

“The people we have got to know are really looking forward to it,” she told the Diss Express.

“You can’t please everybody all the time, but if you want good, healthy food in a genial and bright atmosphere, that is what we are offering.

“It is redecorated inside. It’s lighter, brighter and it’s got that old charm, but without that mish-mash of things a lot of pubs have.

“We will be serving top quality food in a nice environment and that’s a recipe for success.”

The opening took place with a ribbon cutting by Joan Green, a long-time resident of Bressingham who lived in the Chequers for ten years when it was a family home.

1066 At The Chequers will be open from 10am to 6pm, Tuesdays to Saturdays.

For more information, go to www.1066chequers.com