The long-running saga surrounding Barnham Broom hotel and golf course finally wrapped up earlier this year when Breckland Council offloaded the property for £6.9m.

The authority purchased the site for £7m in 2006 but had struggled to sell it since then, in efforts which were shrouded in secrecy and subject to intense scrutiny on social media.

Speaking at a meeting this week, Paul Hewett, cabinet member for property, suggested locals had "wanted" the asset to be sold at a loss in order to have a stick to beat the council with.

Barnham Broom golf course (Image: Keith Whitmore) The authority insists

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