21/08/2026
*Update on repairs following break in*
Firstly, a huge thank you for all those who have donated via the gofundme or volunteered their time to help clean, paint and repair!
Secondly, I understand it can be confusing as to why we would need assistance if we were insured, so I wanted to clarify the position.
Our policy covered a rebuild cost of just over £300,000 - this was based on a survey from years ago that's been index linked. So although it has increased with inflation each year, because the costs of materials have significantly exceeded inflation costs, we were under insured. Loss adjusters have valued the rebuild cost at over half a million, and therefore will only pay out repairs in relation to the percentage that the total building is covered by. We managed to argue this up to 70% and received a payout of around £5,100 in relation to repairs.
Insurance is paid minus the VAT, so although we can claim this element back later, this can't be done until October and 20% (plus the insurance excess) needed to be found upfront.
To give you an idea of costs, the alarm system has cost £2,500 to replace and the till was quoted at £900, so that's 65% of the pay out gone before we even start looking at the actual building repairs, safe and stock.
While we will be officially reopening tomorrow (22nd), the refurbishment work is still ongoing and we may have to temporarily close during quiet periods for further work as and when we're in a position to.
Thank you again for your assistance and understanding- we look forward to seeing you again tomorrow!