Former policewoman buys Berkshire restaurant

Former Metropolitan policewoman and restaurant manager Shobna Joel is the new leaseholder for the Angel fine-dining restaurant and gastropub in West Berkshire.

It's a first-time purchase for Joel from Enfield in Middlesex, who has clocked up experience running the Chiquito restaurant in Staples Corner, London, and the Chicago Rock Café in Milton Keynes.

The restaurant, which has held two AA rosettes and is listed in the current Michelin pub guide, is located in the village of Woolhampton on the River Kennet. It has a prominent position on the main A4 Bath Road between Newbury and Reading.

The Angel occupies a two-storey detached building from the 1930s that offers a 50-seat restaurant, a 20-to-30-seat private function room and a bar area. It also serves as a venue for wedding receptions, functions and corporate events.

Christie Finance provided the funds for Joel to acquire the leasehold interest, which was advertised for £230,000.

By Angela Frewin