THERE is ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ for Narberth High Street’s Angel Inn, which has been closed for some time.

Hope of progress has been expressed following a recent visit to Narberth of the chief executive officer of brewer S A Brain, owners of the Angel Inn.

His visit came after several letters from the Chamber of Trade, Narberth Town Council and Narberth County Councillor Vic Dennis.

CEO Alistair Darby was welcomed by Andrew Rees, chair of Narberth Chamber of Trade, and County Councillor Vic Dennis, and was shown High Street and introduced to a number of other business owners who shared their local business experiences.

Cllr Dennis said: “We had an open and honest exchange of views and we were encouraged that Brains is committed to the Angel. We were assured that in the short-term Brains would be carrying out ‘making good’ works to ensure that the pub, whilst closed, will look more presentable.

“In the longer term, Brains is committed to refurbishing and managing the pub with a view to bringing it back to its former glory. Sadly it is unlikely that will be in the next financial year but we were assured it is a definite commitment.”

He added: “Sadly, both the HSBC and NatWest bank buildings have been neglected since they turned their backs on Narberth. At least it seems we have one national company taking responsibility for their property.

"It was fantastic last year to see Narberth in the top three high streets in Wales thanks to the efforts of independent businesses working very hard to maintain their properties and ensure the Narberth experience.”