John Fountain had a long and successful career across the county running restaurants and food businesses with his husband and business partner, Deryk Riches. 

Their first restaurant together was Woodfordes, based in Sheringham’s High Street, which they ran from 1973.  

Signed photograph of The Commodores with Lionel Richie when they visited Woodfordes restaurant in 1979 (Image: Supplied)

The opening of Garage Diner, Grove Road, Norwich in 1982 (Image: Supplied)

It was here in 1979 they were visited by The Commodores, who shared a signed photograph along with a high commendation of the food, stating: “The best meal we've had in all of United Kingdom including London.” 

From there the couple opened Green Farm in Thorpe Market, based between Cromer and North Walsham, from 1976 to the early 1980s, where they hosted popular celebration-themed food nights. 

Mr Fountain was the accomplished chef leading in the kitchen, designing mouth-watering menus and speciality dishes. His husband meanwhile worked front of house; meeting, greeting, entertaining and serving the guests. 

The Garage Diner with Norwich Mayor for Norwich in Bloom - winners of best small floral display in 1986 (Image: Newsquest)

EDP coverage of Joe Brown’s visit (Image: Newsquest)

Their next venture together was the conversion of an old garage and petrol station forecourt into unique restaurant the Garage Diner on Grove Road, Norwich. Opened in 1982, it was popular for all ages, even hosting a visit from 1960s singer Joe Brown, as well as winning floral awards in Norwich in Bloom’s annual competition. 

After the diner the couple opted for something different and opened Smart Tarts in Sprowston, with Mr Fountain cooking an array of homecooked pies, tarts and savoury delights.  

Although the business name initially caused concern amongst residents – a story that previously featured in this newspaper – it quickly became a firm favourite and people travelled far and wide to savour the tarts and pies. 

Weybourne, Gasche's Restaurant, 2003 auction of contents with co-owners John Fountain (left) and Deryk Riches pictured in the former dining room before the auction (Image: Newsquest)

Press cutting from 2000 before their final retirement in 2002 (Image: Newsquest)

Their final enterprise before retirement in August 2002 saw them return to the restaurant business and in 1994 they took over the established Gasches in Weybourne, near Sheringham. 

Mr Fountain again led the kitchen and continued to retain the long-established high reputation of the restaurant with customers returning again and again to enjoy the culinary experience. 

The couple enjoyed much of their well earned retirement in Spain, while always retaining a home in Norfolk – the place Mr Fountain was born and raised in. 

Paying tribute, his loved ones said: “Many will remember John not only for his incredible food but his great wit, warmth and generosity to his customers, family and friends.  

“A life well lived, he will be solely missed and fondly remembered by many across Norfolk and beyond.” 

Mr Fountain died on Tuesday, March 3 at Horning, near Wroxham.

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© Norwich Evening News