A Norfolk pet shop, set to close down in September, could be replaced by a cafe if planning permission for change of use is granted.

News that Belton Pet and Hardware in a pretty village near Great Yarmouth was met with a wave of disappointment from local residents.

Now a planning application has been submitted to Great Yarmouth Borough Council to change the use of the premises to cafe.

The applicant is named as Clint Rice, while mother and daughter Jacqueline and Laura Lovejoy are planning to run the business.

Laura Lovejoy, who plans to run the cafe with her mum Jacqueline, said: "Belton has been a huge part of my family's life for many years. 

"When the opportunity to take over the shop came up we wanted to find a way to give back to the village. 

"We knew that Belton Pet and Hardware is a hub for the community but due to difficult market conditions and the current owner retiring, it wasn't viable to carry on. 

"We therefore decided that opening a cafe/tea room would be a fantastic way to bring the community together."

To read the full Great Yarmouth Mercury report click here