Arkell's-owned Purton pub the Angel Inn proves a hit with village

The Arkell's-owned Angel Inn has been re-opened under new landlords Darren Turner and Bianca Wilson who took over in February.

The refurbished pub, which is the only surviving one in the small village after The Royal George Inn closed last year, now painted with charming hues of blue and yellow has gone down well with the locals.

But the experienced team might have a challenge on its hands if the same success continues.

Its restaurant will start serving food for the first time on March 31 - the same day as Mother's Day - where they already have more than 100 people already booked in.

Bianca, who started working at 20 at The Kings on Wood Street eight years ago, told the Adver: "It's been quite busy ever since we've taken over, we've only got one side of the the pub open at the moment, and that's been packed at the weekends and the weekdays have been steady.

"Everyone that's come in has been really positive, they all say how great it is to have something in the village and it's what the village has needed.

"We're the only pub in the village so there's a big demand for us.

The team will be unleashing its secret weapon just before its maiden service for Mother's Day - head chef Paul Mgatia who they have both worked with before and plan on serving a tried and tested carvery roast.

Bianca added: "I don't think we'd be able to do that many if it was plated. We're quite confident working together, we know what we're doing, so hopefully it should all go down quite well.

"I have told all the customers it is our first service but they're here to support us at the end of the day."

There is still more room for improvement as well, the owners have opened up its beer garden this weekend, just in time for the summer.

Bianca added: "I don't think they can wait to see what we're going to bring."

Arkell's will be holding a recruitment day at its brewery in Stratton on Tuesday March 26 for aspiring landlords wanting a new career.