A neighbour of a chef who has been running a restaurant from his suburban home has defended him as a "much-loved" member of the community.

Orlando Williams has been running his Orlando's restaurant from his Earham Road house since 2018, but his friends in the community say his venture - which has gained a cult following online - is harmless and that they have often enjoyed "marvellous" sushi at his house.

Lloyd Wescott, who lives opposite Mr Williams, says he has been the victim of a "witch hunt" from one of his neighbours and Norwich City Council, but insists he is "adored" by the rest of the street.

Mr Wescott said: "He's a great character.

Norwich Evening News: Orlando's has been operating as a restaurant from a suburban home since 2018Orlando's has been operating as a restaurant from a suburban home since 2018 (Image: Newsquest)

"We think the world of him around here. He always invites everyone around for marvellous sushi.

"I even told the council to put a camera outside and they'll see he never gets any business.

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"He always dresses sharp, he's a bit stubborn, but he's a lovely old boy."

Mr Wescott said he thought it was wrong that the city council was attempting to stop Mr Williams' fun.

He added: "One day he rang me and asked for help because he claimed the paparazzi were outside, when I got there, there were two photographers.

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"I know technically he's running a restaurant but he's not really, the only person he's served food to is us and the newspaper.

Norwich Evening News: Orlando Williams, who has been running a restaurant from his suburban home in Earlham RoadOrlando Williams, who has been running a restaurant from his suburban home in Earlham Road (Image: Newsquest)

"He obviously used to run two restaurants in the city but he can't anymore and I think he still wants to, so he does this instead."

Mr Williams does have permission to run a bed and breakfast from his property but not to run as a full-time restaurant and takeaway, with his Sekura business listed on Deliveroo and Uber Eats online.

Norwich City Council, which previously told Mr Williams he must stop the unapproved operations by October 10, has been contacted for comment.