The Angel Inn, Pontneddfechan

We danced at The Angel Inn for the very first time last night, having been lured there by the Landlord with the promise of free ale & chips! We could hardly say ‘No’!

The Angel is an old historic pub situated at the start of Bannau Brycheiniog/Brecon Beacons National Park’s famed ‘Waterfall Country’ where the Afon Nedd Fechan joins the river Neath. The nearby waterfalls are spectacular and justly popular with locals & tourists with many of them sat around outside the pub enjoying the ale, food and the evening sunshine after the exertions of their visits.

The pub was keen to give us our free pint and we were willing to accept it, so it was no surprise that the side had already started dancing British Grenadiers when some of us returned from the bar clutching in hand, foaming pints of Evan Evans’ Warrior Ale!

Some of us had brought along family members to watch but Louis Atkinson top trumped everyone by bringing his Mum & Dad from their home in France near to Basle! Sadly, Louis will be leaving us following his graduation ceremony at Swansea Uni, but he promises to look us up whenever he returns to Wales. You’ll be missed Louis!

Our first set included British Grenadiers, Sheriff’s Ride, Banks of the Lea, Valentines (with Nigel calling Rounds instead of back to back, but it did not matter as everyone danced what was called) and Curly Boar. At one point we had five musicians playing the tunes for us to dance to. A short hydration break enabled us to chat to several of the audience who were keen to know more about us.

Our second set saw us start with Postman’s Knock, followed by Riggs of Doom which Paul momentarily confused with Step & Fetch Her during the first chorus! Ring of Bells and Y Gaseg Eira enabled eight dancers to perform before we did Greensleeves and finishing with Bonnie Green Garters which saw Louis’ mum joining us.
So, a great evening was had by us all, and we shall hopefully return next year to this marvellous pub.