The Raglan Arms in Llandenny near Usk is under new ownership after a £400,000 investment supported by Barclays business.

The village pub which has bought by husband and wife Judith and William Brown brings good food, well-presented to the area and retains a valuable asset to the local community.

The Raglan Arms over the years has been much acclaimed, being mentioned in a number of the top food guide books.

Judith Brown, owner of The Raglan Arms said: “We have been in the hospitality industry for some time and have run businesses all over the world including Vanuatu in the Pacific Islands and have been operating a village Inn with restaurant and rooms on the Isle of Skye for the last 13 years.

"My father who is 93 lives in Raglan so we wanted to move closer to him for his final years and have always had an eye on the Raglan Arms every time we came to visit. We have brought in a new chef who has a lot of experience of working in Michelin star restaurants and his last job was travelling the world as executive head chef for the Force India Formula One racing team.”

William Brown said: “We have created a new restaurant and bar, offering a fine dining experience within a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We try to run the business as one big family with a huge emphasis on quality of both the service and the locally sourced produce. Running a business is tough with no rest bite and being tied to the business 24-hours a day but the rewards far outweigh the downsides even after working 16 hour days.

"The gratitude that customers enjoy their lunch or dinner, or customer’s returning week after week makes it all worthwhile. We have only been open a month but early signs are good as we are already fully booked at weekends and for Sunday lunches.”

Steve Massey, Barclays Business senior banking manager, said: “As champions of local business, it is essential that we support new business ventures such as the Raglan Arms. By really understanding the business, Barclays has been able to support the business both financially and professionally throughout the acquisition. The plan is to create a destination pub with customers coming from everywhere and anywhere to enjoy the service and good quality produce. Starting a new business venture in their retirement years would sound crazy to some but William and Judith clearly have the appetite, energy and experience to give this venture every chance of success.”

Judith said: “We are very optimistic about the future and we want to engage and become an asset to the local community. We are very much aware of the challenges within the industry, but believe if you have the right staff and the right product you have a good chance of success. Whatever the external economic environment throws up, there will always be some businesses doing well and others not so well. We feel we are well positioned to grow our business and can use this investment supported by Barclays to grow and strengthen our business. We offer a great location, great food and great service and suggest that everyone should come and visit.”