Wednesday 15 February 2023

THE FUTURE of a popular Beverley bistro and tapas bar has been secured thanks to the generous support of customers and supporters, who raised a £12,000 crowdfunding target in under an hour. James Alcock launched the Pig & Whistle in Sow Hill Road, with business partner Richard Hanson in 2017 and has since gone on to garner awards, including being listed as a “local gem” in the 2023 Good Food Guide.

But James now taken on sole ownership and launched the appeal on Kickstarter to generate funds to pay a bond to the restaurant’s landlord with the aim of taking full control of the premises.

The target was reached in just 47 minutes and James (pictured right) told Beverley FM he was “humbled and blown away by the support of guests”. He said: “Securing this funding allows me to take full ownership of the business.

“Having already bought my business partner out this additional funding will allow me to take on the lease of the building independently and finalise the full take-over of the business. I can’t thank Richard enough for his support in the business and his patience whilst we funded this. It’s been a journey together but I’m excited to also go it alone now.”

Average pledges were around £200, with rewards including vouchers for future star chef nights. Money continues to come in – the fund is now in excess of £14,000 – and a new target of £20,000 has been set.

James told us: “Essentially if we can take the fund to 20k + we will look to have a set of new windows fitted to the front of the bistro that give the restaurant and terrace a real inside outside feel. Like the great bistros of France and tapas bars of Spain! I’m excited and hopeful we can push this fund on to achieve that, but humbled and honoured you’ve allowed us to come this far and helped me secure The Pig for the next 10 years!”

Upcoming events include guest chef nights, including appearances by Michelin-starred chefs Paul Leonard and Mark Poynton.