After helping a Fakenham pub to become an award winner, its general manager is passing on the reins to his assistant.

Kevin Black announced he is leaving his role at the Henry IV pub on February 22, after choosing to transfer to another Greene King pub in Norwich.

John Northam will take over as general manager.

Mr Black has been heading up the team there since 2021 when the pub reopened.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Kevin Black has announced he will leave his position as the General manager of Henry IV pub in FakenhamKevin Black has announced he will leave his position as the General manager of Henry IV pub in Fakenham (Image: Neil Didsbury)

“I saw this as my forever pub but an opportunity too good to pass has tempted me away,” Mr Black said.

“I’ve worked hard to make sure food and service are as awesome as possible, as well as making sure the pub has had a zero tolerance on drugs or anti-social behaviour, making the Henry IV one of the top places to come eat and drink with family and friends.

"So much so we recently won best local business award by Tripadvisor, which is voted on by the customers.

“I’m gutted to leave, I’ve genuinely loved Fakenham. I’ve loved the pub and the people. It’s one of the nicest places I’ve lived and worked.

"The town has got a really special place in my heart that will be with me forever.”

Fakenham & Wells Times: The Henry IV pub in FakenhamThe Henry IV pub in Fakenham (Image: Archant)

Mr Black helped to oversee several changes at the pub on Greenway Lane, including major renovation work for the World Cup in 2022.

It is Mr Northam's first general manager position. He was working as a team leader at a pub in Norwich less than a year ago and was transferred to Henry IV and was promoted by Mr Black to assistant manager.

Fakenham & Wells Times: John Northam will take over as general manager at the Henry IV pub in Fakenham John Northam will take over as general manager at the Henry IV pub in Fakenham (Image: Kevin Black)

Speaking on taking the top job, Mr Northman said: “I look forward to the new challenges at the Henry, moving forward towards a premier sports venue, the reintroduction of the pool table, expanding our offering to the community and continuing the successful legacy of my predecessor.”