A VILLAGE pub in the heart of Suffolk is to re-open next week – under the management of two 19-year-olds.

The Bucks Head Inn at Thwaite, near Eye, will be opening its doors at 6pm on Friday, July 6, following an extensive refit.

In charge will be chef Richard Hayward, from East Harling in Norfolk, and his partner, hospitality management professional Samantha Elstone, from Bacton, near Stowmarket.

Richard already has several years experience as a chef with pubs, restaurants and catering companies in Norfolk and Suffolk, including the Mulberry at Thetford, Fredricks Fine Foods in Diss, the Burston Crown and the Four Horseshoes at Thornham Magna, along with six months working at the Ritz in London.

Sam completed a Level 2 food and beverage apprenticeship at the Four Horseshoes in Thornham Magna and worked there as an assistant manager.

They have taken on six members of staff, including two apprentices from Otley College. The food will be prepared on the premises, and will be locally-sourced where possible, while, as a free house, the offer will also include local ales, lagers and ciders.

He added: “We will be open seven days a week, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner six days a week and breakfast and lunch every Sunday.

“Our regular menu and specials menu feature a wide selection of freshly prepared, homemade dishes in a comfortable, traditional setting. As a freehouse, we are able to offer a wide selection of ciders, lagers and ales including those produced in the East Anglian region by Calvors, Adnams, Greene King and Woodforde’s.

“We are excited about our new business venture and would like to thank the local community and our families and friends for all their support.“Richard said: “The Bucks Head has been closed for over three years and we are thrilled to be able to give this pub a new lease of life, to support local producers and create jobs for local people.”

The Bucks Head will be hosting family day, open to all, on Saturday, July 7, from noon to 4pm, including a barbecue and entertainment.