A POPULAR pub turned antiques centre and tearoom has been given the green light to expand. 

The historic Shoulder of Mutton, in Fordham, is set to be given a revamp both inside and out, marking a new era for the beloved venue.

Venue bosses, Jonathan and Jaci Neill, who run the centre with their children Amy and Sam, have been given the green light to change parts of the 750-year-old site.

The changes earmarked include the change of use of the three first-floor rooms, from storage associated with the antique collection to an area for the display and sale of antiques and collectables.

The venue’s exterior is also set for a facelift, with the replacement of a shelter to the rear of the listed barn, with bench pods within the grounds of the premises.

Gazette: Community - The venue was packed with traders at a craft fair earlier this month.Community - The venue was packed with traders at a craft fair earlier this month. (Image: Shoulder of Mutton)

The site will also temporarily retain the existing covered seating area, though it must be removed from the site within three years.

The structure is not considered appropriate for permanent retention, due to its visual impact on the character of the conservation area and setting of the listed building.

Because of this, the new pods are set to be painted with a black finish to retain the area’s natural charm.

Located in Fordham on the banks of the river Colne, the beloved venue, 750 years old, has become a renowned site for its antique centre and charming tearoom.

The report said: "The proposed first floor uses will bring these areas back in to active use providing uses that will be supportive of the local community and economy, whilst proposing limited intervention to the historic fabric of the listed building."

The site currently includes a courtyard with seating and a river view, an antique centre, large garden with a children’s play area and a barn.

Earlier this year, an eagle-eyed visitor spotted an unusual mark on a wooden beam in the tearoom, which turned out to be a ‘daisy wheel’,  a symbol that held great power during the witch trials.

It was believed if demons saw the symbol, they would be drawn to it and end up trapped.

It is believed the symbol dates back to the times of the Essex Witch Trials and the so-called 'Witchfinder General' Matthew Hopkins.

For more information on the Shoulder of Mutton and its rich, fascinating history, visit bit.ly/3MJ0HLv.