A new face is behind the bar of a Caister pub after a family-run business took it over.

The Gate on High Street has seen two landlords move out in the past year.

Following the exit of its last manager, The Gate has stood empty since the beginning of January.

But experienced business owner Steve Thornton, from Lowestoft, believes he can turn the tide of the once-loved pub.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Steve Thornton, of LEC Pubs, is the new tenant at The Gate in Caister. Picture - Mick HowesSteve Thornton, of LEC Pubs, is the new tenant at The Gate in Caister. Picture - Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

LEC Pubs owner Mr Thornton and his family have added The Gate to their lineup of seven pubs, including the Woodman in Norwich, The Lady of the Lake in Oulton Broad and others in Northampton, Leicester and Rye.

The Gate re-opens on Friday from 6pm.

Mr Thornton, 47, intends to use his managers, contacts and 15 years of experience to breathe new life into the Caister pub.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The Gate (pictured in 2018) will reopen on Friday from 6pm. Picture - NewsquestThe Gate (pictured in 2018) will reopen on Friday from 6pm. Picture - Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

"When the opportunity for The Gate came up, I had to take it," Mr Thornton said.

"I'm very familiar with Caister. We have friends in the village, so it's be good to branch out."

Over the coming months, traditional pub food will be introduced at the pub and live entertainment will take place every fortnight.

Mr Thornton said entertainment will range from DJs, singers and bands. First up, The Maisy Joe Band will take to the stage on Saturday from 8.30pm.

Inspired by the longstanding soul weekender scenes in Caister and Great Yarmouth, Mr Thornton said soul events will also make a return to the pub.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Caister pub The Gate pictured in January following the exit of the previous tenant. Picture - James WeedsCaister pub The Gate pictured in January following the exit of the previous tenant. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

"We've got a lot of contacts, and we will try to boost the business at The Gate," Mr Thornton added.

"We want to transfer the skills we've gained at the Lady of the Lake - which is doing very well - and help The Gate thrive again."

Mr Thornton said if all goes well during his short-term tenancy, he aims to update the inside of the pub for a longer-term deal.

For more information, search "The Gate, Caister on Sea" on Facebook.