A NEW American-style diner is to open at the A12 services at Rivenhall creating five full-time jobs.

The Empire Diner is the creation of Mark Mascar, 48 , who has worked in the catering industry for most of his life.

Renovation work, including an authentic New York graffiti mural, has started in preparation time for the opening day, on June 11.

The site, which used to be the 8 Ball Diner, was incredibly popular with car enthusiasts and food lovers, until its untimely closure in 2012.

Mr Mascar, who is obsessed with cars, motorbikes, food and American culture, says opening the establishment at the site of the former 8 Ball Diner gives him the perfect chance to combine some of his biggest interests.

He said: “I have been collecting memorabilia for many years. Once the diner is open, my garage will be a lot emptier.

“I have been to New York 15 times. I went back in November to do some research for the menu.

"We have been told it is really exciting – it is a take on traditional diner food, with a modern twist.”

Although the style of decor may be American, Mr Mascar wants to give the diner a very British community feel.

He said: “My partner is coming here to take care of the social media and things like that.

“It is going to be a family-run business, we have got our sons and daughters involved as well.

"We want to source all the food as locally as possible.

"We want it to be a welcoming environment, we want people to come here and meet us.

"With my experience of working in the restaurant trade, I do not want people to come here and have lovely food but get rubbish service.”

The 8 Ball was famous for bringing together local car enthusiasts and Mr Mascar has already been in conversation with the groups who used to attend the diner.

Mr Mascar said: “This is my passions all rolled into one.

“It is a dream come true, it is something I have worked all my life for.”