Greyhound Inn under new ownership

Kelly Jolliffe, owner of the Greyhound Inn, at Llantrisant, said: “I have worked in the hospitality industry since I was 16 and always dreamed of owning my own establishment. The moment myself and Steve walked into the Greyhound we just sensed that this was a great opportunity. A fantastic building, great staff and a trading business in a great location.

"We have received a very warm welcome from the local community and we look forward to deepening our relationship and maintaining the Greyhound as a focal point for the local community.”

Debra Reader, Barclays business banking manager, said: “As champions of local business, it is essential that we support local growing businesses such as the Greyhound Inn. By really understanding the business and issues they have faced, Barclays has been able to support the acquisition.

"Kelly and Steve have given up successful jobs, sold their home near Reading and moved to Usk to follow their dream, which demonstrates the passion and commitment they have to this venture.”

Kelly said: “We are not looking to make wholesale changes to the business as the Greyhound already has a fantastic reputation and fantastic staff. We are just looking to tweak here and there and actively market the 10 en-suite rooms available on site. Running a business in this industry can be tough but the rewards far outweigh the downsides, as you receive a compliment from a customer of just see a party of guests having a great time. We have lots of ideas and plans for the future but at present there does not seem to be enough hours in the day. We have just launched a 'tea n cake' afternoon offering and have planning permission to convert our other on site buildings into additional rooms if the accommodation element of the business takes off.

"We had no intention of coming to Wales but a chance introduction, some market research and financial support from Barclays and here we are. It has only been four weeks but we are living the dream.”