A popular café in the Suffolk countryside is due to close for a month.

Folk Café in Fornham St Martin, near Bury St Edmunds, will be closed from 4pm on 15 July to 8.30am on August 15.

"We outgrew our space within the first year of opening," said restaurant owner Ali Barker. 

"The extension has been a very long time coming and we are happy it's happening!"

East Anglian Daily Times: The artist's impression shows large windows at the end of the buildingThe artist's impression shows large windows at the end of the building (Image: Folk Cafe)

This follows the planned development of the surrounding business court and the popularity of the café leaving several customers disappointed by the lack of available tables.

The current building work shows the extension will nearly double the available floor space, as well as provide more toilet facilities.

The business has grown rapidly following its opening on December 3, 2018. 

Originally a team of five, Folk now has 25 staff members and plans for more.East Anglian Daily Times: The staff team will grow to about 40 before reopening in AugustThe staff team will grow to about 40 before reopening in August (Image: Folk Cafe)

"We have plans for a total of around 40 staff members when we reopen in August," said Ms Baker.

"Fun has always been at the heart of what we do, even in times of stress."

It is not only the building that is set to change, however.

"Whilst lots of what we do at Folk will remain the same, our menu will be updated and the space overall will be much bigger."

East Anglian Daily Times: Folk is popular for using fresh local produce in the meals on the menuFolk is popular for using fresh local produce in the meals on the menu (Image: Folk Cafe)

The expansion will create more space for private events and weddings, as well as a shop and deli, including a Folk larder line.

Ms Barker confirmed that there are no more plans for future locations.

"We just have a big ambition to make our corner of Suffolk extra special.

"Our community has shown us so much support and I can't wait to provide a space that works so much better for us all."

Folk closes on July 15 and the newly-extended café will open on August 15.