The Wizard’s Inn had never appeared in the ‘Top 50 Pubs of Norfolk’ published annually by the Norwich Gazette. It had never featured in the local tourist guide or any Good Food guide. The ale was bitter, the atmosphere musty, the decor dated.

Yet despite this it served a loyal band of regulars day in, evening out. Regulars who travelled from all over the world to take advantage of the solitude offered in its dark corners and quiet simplicity. Most didn’t even have to order from Larry, the proprietor, who worked behind the bar every night. He knew them all well, and they all wanted more or less the same thing – a pint, a pie and some peace.

The men would enter, place their pointed hats on the hat stand, hang their cloaks by the door and find a suitable seat. Most sat alone, although the odd group of…