A North Walsham café known for a mural celebrating England Lioness Lauren Hemp has changed hands.
Café Kitale in St Nicholas Court has been owned by local businessman Robert Scammell, 59, since its opening 13 years ago.
The café was at the centre of a row over a mural of hometown hero Lauren Hemp its owner had commissioned on an exterior wall earlier this year.
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The artwork received widespread praise after Hemp and her England teammates won the Women’s Euros last year, but there was controversy over whether it had the correct planning permission – as the location is part of the town’s conservation area.
The business has now been sold to Diane Kennedy, who has worked at the café alongside Mr Scammell for the past nine years.
Mr Scammell said he decided to sell the business ahead of his 60th birthday later this year.
He said: “It’s a very successful business.
“I’ve worked with a great team of staff and made many friends with customers over the years."
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Miss Kennedy said taking over the business was a “no-brainer”.
“I showed interest immediately because this is all I’ve ever known,” she said.
“I’ve had lots of help from family, and everyone knows how much I love it here - it’s such a great environment.
“I’ll carry it on for Rob and it will remain as it was and certainly won’t be changing names.
“It’s a hub here in North Walsham with a group of regulars who are here every week.”
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Mr Scammell, who owns other businesses in North Walsham, thanked customers at the café for “all of their generosity and support” for the charity work he has done over the years.
He said he has raised up to £500,000, which has gone towards a primary school Mr Scammell built in Uganda in 2006, people in Ukraine and local good causes.
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