Pub on Aylesbury Vale-Dacorum border saved as regulars donate over £16,000

A pub in Ivinghoe has been saved as regulars donate thousands during the coronavirus pandemic.

Mick Bushnell, landlord of The Rose & Crown Ivinghoe, set up the crowdfunder page to keep the business going whilst it is closed, he has suggested that people pre-order bar tabs or meal vouchers to redeem when the pub re-opens.

He set a target of £15,000 when he created the page on Friday, by Monday he had reached that target, and the donation total is now £16,710.

On the crowdfunder page it says: "Since closing on 20th March, like we were advised, we've kept going as normal.

"Businesses like ours were among the first to close, and are likely to be the last to open but hopefully our friends and neighbours can help us get through it.

"Staff are all being paid in full, without the full help of the furlough scheme, and obviously we'll keep doing this until we can open again.

"We still have small independent suppliers, and large utility companies, rents and rates, who all still need paying. The Government have been great but it takes £1,500 a week just to stand still.

"We're not looking for charity. Everyone's struggling. But by pre booking a meal or some drinks for later in the year you can help us a huge amount. You can also enjoy a big discount!

"It's a tough time for everyone and once we can get the pub back open again, myself and the staff cant wait to welcome you all back."

Mick said: "The support has been really overwhelming, it has been brilliant.

"The main reason was because we needed some funds, as we have not been trading since March 20 and we have still being paying all our staff.

"We wanted to include our neighbours and regulars and this way we have, and they help to keep the pub going and get something out of it.

"The response has been amazing and we are grateful for everyone that has helped, everyone has been so supportive."

Mark Roberts, a regular at The Rose and Crown, said: "It's a very close knit community pub, it's amazing that he has raised so much money in a few days.

"The initial total of £12,000 was met by 1pm on Sunday!

"All supported by the local community. Mick's idea is clearly one of 'thinking out the box' and maybe one that others may follow?

To see The Rose & Crown crowdfunder page, click here.

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