A campaign to save a veteran coffee shop in South Bristol has surpassed its fundraising target in less than two days. Hennesseys coffee shop on North Street, has been a part of the Bedminster community for the past 15 years.
It faces permanent closure by the end of October unless enough costs can be raised in time to keep it running. A JustGiving page was launched by Joey Withers on Thursday (September 29) to raise extra funds with a target of £3,500.
The fundraiser has since smashed its target in less than 48 hours and has reached £4,655 through just over 200 supporters. It had already reached 80 per cent of its target after less than a day of the campaign being live.
Read more: Hennessey's Coffee Shop fundraiser hits £2,000 in less than 24 hours
In an update shared on Facebook, Ms Withers thanked all those who had donated so far and urged people to continue to give what they can, if they are able to, to "buy more time". The fundraiser states the money would be used to allow the cafe to continue for the next six months.
Ms Withers wrote: "Many have suggested that Mike increases his prices. However, it’s important to him that the shop remains affordable for those on low incomes, as the community is so important, especially as times are currently so hard.
"Therefore, I would instead urge everyone who can afford it to drop a few extra coins in his tip jar whenever you visit, as that will massively contribute to the long-term sustainability of the business."
Owner Mike has also been donating the day's leftover food to charitable causes for almost as long as the coffee shop has been in business. It is known for its friendly atmosphere and its indulgent, real Belgian hot chocolates.
You can donate to Hennesseys' fundraiser here.
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