Eighteen years on from the South Wales Argus’s coverage of a Monmouthshire venue’s impressive revival, the same pub continues to trade today.

A look back at how the newspaper documented the establishment’s comeback:

The Angel Inn in Grosmont, Monmouthshire, was seeing healthy business just eight months after a group of loyal regulars stepped in to prevent its closure.

Six customers combined their resources to invest £250,000 in their neighbourhood pub, worried it would either shut down due to poor performance or be taken over by a commercial brewing company.

Rob Barker, Jenny Pile, and Martin Cull appear in the top row, with Oliver Huntsman and Witek Mintowt-Czyz in the bottom row, who took over The Angel Inn in Grosmont near Abergavenny in 2005, and the venture was thriving within months (Image: NICK MORRISH)

Six months after that, takings were climbing, and the venue had re-established itself as a focal point for locals.

Plans were also underway for it to feature in a film scheduled for release the following year.

Rob Barker, who was 54 years old, was one of the six contributors who helped safeguard the business and subsequently became the manager.

When the group completed their purchase of the Angel in July 2005, the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) called on other countryside settlements throughout Britain to follow suit and protect their village pubs.

Barker indicated awareness of other sites in Wales where locals were considering buying their local to guarantee its survival.

CAMRA revealed that one pub shut its doors every week in Wales, though the Angel’s appearance on screen was anticipated to boost its profile even further.

According to Barker, the group were described as very welcoming people.

The venue had been given the temporary name The Daffodil while shooting took place, as performers including Michael Gambon and Damian Lewis filmed sequences for The Baker, a comedy drama set in an isolated Welsh settlement.

Barker described the excitement among everyone involved.

According to Barker, Damian Lewis was described as very personable and already knew everyone by their first name.

Filmmakers had scouted numerous Welsh communities several months prior to discovering Grosmont suited their needs.

Barker explained that Grosmont matched what they required perfectly and they appreciated the warm community spirit.

The film followed a hitman on the run who eventually reaches the tearooms, castle, and church, with residents appearing as extras.

Three of the six owners of The Angel Inn in Grosmont, Monmouthshire, mark their success in April 2006. Pictured outside the pub, from left: Rob Barker, Jenny Pile, and Witek Mintowt-Czyz (Image: Mike Lewis)

Looking ahead to 2026, The Angel Inn in Grosmont continues to welcome visitors.

A variety of events run throughout each month.

This month has already featured a jam session, a sketching and drinks evening with Miriam, acoustic performances, and a book club.

Coming up is a Welsh Club on Thursday, April 20 from 7pm until 8pm. The event was promoted as a session where people of all levels can learn Welsh in a relaxed, friendly environment. It was described as a totally free class, run by Grosmont resident and teacher Jonny, who learned Welsh during lockdown and wanted to give something back to the community.

Another Welsh Club is planned for Thursday, April 27.

There will additionally be a quiz night on Wednesday, April 29, with drinks and snacks available from 6.30pm.

The quiz starts at 8pm, with teams of up to six players and an entry charge of £2 per person, with cash prizes on offer.