Pub chain JD Wetherspoon has confirmed its interest in opening an establishment in Fakenham - but quashed rumours linking it to the vacant Crown Hotel.

Pub chain JD Wetherspoon has confirmed its interest in opening an establishment in Fakenham - but quashed rumours linking it to the vacant Crown Hotel.

The prominent Market Place building has stood empty for almost a year, prompting concerns it may be falling into disrepair and damaging the appeal of the town centre.

The continued closure has also sparked rumours over the identity of any prospective new tenants or owners, with some suggesting it had attracted the interest of Wetherspoon, the national group which specialises in low-priced drinks and meals.

Company spokesman Eddie Gershon said the Crown was not a target - although it was considering a different building in the town.

He said: “Yes, we are very keen to open a pub in Fakenham. We are aware of a site, but it is not The Crown.

“We have looked at a site, but at the moment we cannot say where it is, and nothing has come of it so far.”

The announcement comes two weeks after Wetherspoon confirmed negotiations were at an advanced stage to take over the Phoenix Hotel in Dereham.