A village pub is back on the market after its last landlord was evicted.

The Wortwell Bell, just off the A143 in between Bungay and Harleston, opened its doors in March under Paul Holland after the previous landlady retired in September last year.

The Stonegate establishment is now "back on the market" after the pub shut its doors once again.  

Earlier this summer, Mr Holland had been handed his eviction notice by Stonegate. 

He admitted he breached Stonegate policy by purchasing his beer from an external company. 

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Paul Holland said the pub became a part of people's livelihoodsPaul Holland said the pub became a part of "people's livelihoods" (Image: Bruno Brown)

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Mr Holland said: "We are very sad and we all miss it."

He ran the pub with his wife Michelle and his son Harrison.

They held a leaving party at the pub which Mr Holland said was "well supported" and "rammed" with customers. 

"We tried our upmost to stay," he added. 

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Before closing the pub doors, Mr Holland set up a petition to stay called “Save The Wortwell Bell, Our Village pub”. 

The petition raised 668 signatures, with contributors praising the pub for its atmosphere. 

One said:  “Our community needs this pub. It is the heart of our village and brings us together”.

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The aftermath of the car crash in May this year The aftermath of the car crash in May this year (Image: Simon Leggett)

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In May, a BMW crashed into the front of the building, causing £53,000 of damage to the building.

With the help of the community, Mr Holland was able to reopen the pub as usual the following day.

About the closure of the pub, a spokesperson for Stonegate Group said: "The Wortwell Bell is currently closed following the eviction of the previous tenant, as per the conditions of their temporary agreement.

"We are also taking this time to carry out essential repairs after a car crashed into the building.

"We are actively recruiting a new publican to take on this charming 18th-century village pub, which features traditional exposed beams, two beautiful beer gardens, and dining space for 40."