Rickards, Treforest, Pontypridd

I've been coming here occasionally for a few years because it's near the station and they sell Digger's Gold. But I feel less inclined to come back every time I call in. It's full of extremely know-it-all blokes (too old to be students, but obviously not in salaried work at 4.00 on a Tuesday). The young women with the babies and the games on their tablets have gone, thankfully. Group of middle-aged locals at another table. No music on; no obvious TV sport from where I'm sitting: other than the pint, the only things in its favour. I think I'll make my excuses and leave. I'll see what the Otley is like next time I'm between trains. Can't be as bad as this.

Modernised local. Staple shaped interior, partially in darkness and pretty charmless all-round with a nasty salmony purple colour; “a fine example of how to ruin a pub with careless modernisation” indeed. Pool table off left. Three cask: 2x Grey Trees & Brains Red Dragon (NBSS 3) which means it’s GBG listed. But frankly I wouldn’t bother unless you’re a completist.

A fine example of how to ruin a pub with careless modernisation. A motley assortment of light wood furniture, recycled floorboard bar front, DIY bar back and a colour scheme of white walls with dark grey highlights does not produce a good effect and leaves you wondering what it used to be like. A curious arched TV area at the back feels more like a coal mine, perhaps to keep the locals happy. Amazingly though, the house ale is the award-winning Grey Trees Diggers Gold, in excellent condition, joined by a guest which at this point was Brecon Lovely Tackle. Friendly enough, good beer, and with a proper garden as well - perhaps it will improve in time.