The head chef of a market town pub has said the chance to be part of a major festival celebrating food and drink was "just too good to miss".

The Swan at Loddon will be offering its customers a menu that celebrates produce from within a 10-mile radius of the pub and restaurant for the Beccles Food and Drink Festival.

The festival's Fringe event is running from May 13 to May 27 and the Loddon pub will be the centre of attraction.

The Swan's special ‘South Norfolk’ lunch menu will be served from midday to 2.30pm on Saturday, May 13 and Sunday, May 14 and a special ‘South Norfolk’ dinner menu will be served from 6.30pm to 9pm on Saturday, May 13.

Jason Wright, executive head chef at The Swan, said: “We are fortunate to be located in Loddon, which is surrounded by amazing producers and the opportunity to celebrate what’s literally on our doorstep is just too good to miss."

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Jason Wright, executive head chef at The Swan speaking with a farmer about fresh locally sourced produce for the menuJason Wright, executive head chef at The Swan speaking with a farmer about fresh locally sourced produce for the menu (Image: Newsquest)

The Swan has had a long history as a pub, first opening as a coach house in the 18th century.  

Today it’s a freehouse pub serving local ales and fine food, also offering bed and breakfast with its 10 boutique-style bedrooms.

READ MORE: First look inside Norfolk pub after three-year revamp

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Exterior shot of the grand and historic Swan building in LoddonExterior shot of the grand and historic Swan building in Loddon (Image: Donna Louise-Bishop)

READ MORE: Full line-up for Beccles Food and Drink Festival 2023

Kelly Wright, general manager at The Swan, said: “It’s been a real pleasure to research and visit the local farms and vineyards that we will be featuring on the weekend.

"Forging new relationships and supporting super local is something we can only hope will continue.”

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Crowds enjoying the food and drinks stalls in Sheepgate, Beccles during the 2022 Food and Drink FestivalCrowds enjoying the food and drinks stalls in Sheepgate, Beccles during the 2022 Food and Drink Festival (Image: Submitted)

The main festival will take place in Beccles town centre on May 27, with over 60 stalls consisting of artisan East Anglian produce and world street food taking the streets.

Running from 10am until 4pm, Beccles will be filled with the smell of cooking from around the world including Italian, Indian, Thai, Malaysian and American-style dishes to tempt the tastebuds.