‘Help us thrive rather than just survive’ was the message at the Bevy Pub’s Annual General Meeting as they launched their crowdfunding campaign.
The Bevy in Moulsecoomb is Brighton’s only community owned pub, offering a lifeline to many local people, but has been on the brink of closure. Having just about stabilised, they have now launched a crowdfunding campaign – where every pound you give is matched by a further three pounds from the Cost of Living Resilience Fund.
Treasurer Bob Thust said:
‘If we can raise £7,500 that will become £30,000. Your money will go towards refurbishing the pub so it can be hired out more and host an even wider range of community events; relaunching our healthy food offer on a sustainable footing, and exploring viable options for the Bevy site together with our supportive landlord East Brighton Trust. With every pound matched by another three from the Cost of Living Resilience Fund now is the time!”
The Bevy launched in December 2014 after a group of determined locals got together to raise funds and came up with a plan to re-open it as more than just a pub. After four years of fundraising and with a small army of volunteers spending weekends painting and fixing the place up, the venue re-opened as a community pub.
The Bevy has built up a great local reputation, holding family events like the recent ice-cream day in the photo. Regulars play a significant role in maintaining the community spirit. They help keep the garden looking fantastic, pitch in to turn the rocket composter, fix lights and doors and even jump behind the bar to lend a hand during busy times.
Chair Warren Carter said:
‘We measure our community pub not just in the pints poured and the cash through the tills, but how we can bring people together and change lives. The pensioners that only leave the house once a week to come to the seniors’ club, our disability disco, our Family Thursdays where people get to enjoy free activities and free food.’
Click this link to support the Crowdfunder.
Photo: Justine Stephens/East Brighton Trust
