A former village pub that had been closed for two years has now been transformed into a "vibrant" new café and deli shop.

The Lemon and Rosemary Yard in Elsing has finally opened its doors and customers have been flocking from all over Norfolk.

The business can be found in the former 16th-century Mermaid Inn pub which has undergone a significant facelift by its new operators Abbi Saunt and Alexandra Wrzava.

Dereham Times: Owners Alexandra Wrzava (left) and Abbi Saunt at their new café and deli, the Lemon and Rosemary Yard in ElsingOwners Alexandra Wrzava (left) and Abbi Saunt at their new café and deli, the Lemon and Rosemary Yard in Elsing (Image: Denise Bradley)

Ms Saunt, 34, said: "It hasn't really sunk in yet - just how far we have come and how quickly it has all happened.

"It took a lot of early mornings and late nights, with help from friends and family but we did it.

"We are exhausted but so happy with what we have created. Some people have described it as magical."

Dereham Times: The Lemon and Rosemary Yard in ElsingThe Lemon and Rosemary Yard in Elsing (Image: Denise Bradley)

Dereham Times: The Lemon and Rosemary Yard in ElsingThe Lemon and Rosemary Yard in Elsing (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Since the official opening on December 16, the pair said they have been rushed off their feet. 

It is currently open Wednesday to Sunday 9am until 4pm - offering a breakfast menu from 9am until 11am, lunch from 12pm until 3pm, and drinks until 4pm.

Ms Saunt said their first Sunday serving roast dinners was also a sell-out, with bookings already being taken well into February. 

Dereham Times: Inside the Lemon and Rosemary YardInside the Lemon and Rosemary Yard (Image: The Lemon and Rosemary Yard)

Due to demand, from January, they will also open on Tuesdays - but only for drinks and cakes in the café. The deli and shop will be open too.

Ms Saunt said: "It has been non-stop. We have been full pretty much every day with lots of people from the village and surrounding areas.

"The feedback has been lovely. They are just so happy to have a new business here.

"But it's very different to what it was before. We have incorporated lots of bright colours.

Dereham Times: Sticky cinnamon bun at the Lemon and Rosemary YardSticky cinnamon bun at the Lemon and Rosemary Yard (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

"The deli and shop have also been very successful already. During Christmas we had lots of people buying our hampers."

From the shop, customers can buy everyday essentials through to local produce and luxury items.

At the deli, there are also fresh cakes, cannolis, sausage rolls, pork pies and local cheese.

In the new year, Ms Saunt said they hope to host themed nights and events in the café.

Starting on January 27, they will host a regular 'around the world' evening once a month. The first event will have a Spanish theme. 

Ms Saunt added: "Thank you to the Elsing villagers and surrounding villages who have made us feel really welcome. 

"We are overwhelmed with how nice and kind everyone has been."