An early 20th-century pub, that was previously owned by an Ipswich Town legend, has reopened as a pub, cafe and community hub after nine years.

The Cross Keys in Henley, between Ipswich and Needham Market, has reopened after nine years of closure and threats of being converted into housing.

New owners, husband and wife team Dan and Tina Powick, bought the pub in April 2022 and spent the last 15 months renovating the building.

Kazia Gianni, a friend of theirs, joined them for the project, as they had 15 years experience of working in pubs.

East Anglian Daily Times: The Cross Keys in Henley has reopened after nine years. Credit: Google MapsThe Cross Keys in Henley has reopened after nine years. Credit: Google Maps (Image: Google Maps)

The pub reopened for the first time on June 9, with live music from Rag'n'Bone Man's dad's band performing.

Tina said: "It's amazing.

"Renovating and now opening the pub has been a steep learning curve but seeing people's faces as they walk in for the first time in nine years makes all the hard work worthwhile.

"We are already attracting such great musicians as live music is something we want as a regular occurrence here."

East Anglian Daily Times: Dan, Tina and Kazia, the team behind The Cross Keys. Credit: Tina PowickDan, Tina and Kazia, the team behind The Cross Keys. Credit: Tina Powick (Image: Tina Powick)

The pub, which dates back to 1916, was previously owned and run by Ipswich Town legend Kevin Beattie for a number of years.

Mrs Powick continued: "Our neighbour told us that she had her first job, her wedding celebrations, her children's christenings and her 40th birthday at the pub.

"It showed us the importance of our pubs and how devastating it is for the local community when they're closed."

The pub will also be used as a community hub during the day, with yoga sessions and a lady's choir already using the space.

East Anglian Daily Times: The Cross Keys has been under renovation for the past 15 months. Credit: Google MapsThe Cross Keys has been under renovation for the past 15 months. Credit: Google Maps (Image: Google Maps)

Kazia added: "I have worked in pubs since I was 14 and have seen the struggle pub owners have.

"We want to support the community ina variety of ways, not just by offering food and drink."

The pub is hosting an open day event on July 22, and for more information on the pub, and it's activities, click here.

East Anglian Daily Times: Inside the recently renovated pub. Credit: Tina PowickInside the recently renovated pub. Credit: Tina Powick (Image: Tina Powick)