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Help save Bristol’s world famous cat pub
More than 150 people donated more than £4,500 in the first eight hours of a crowdfunding campaign to keep a world famous Bristol pub open.
The Bag of Nails has no outside area meaning that it still cannot reopen despite coronavirus restrictions easing.
The pub at the bottom of Jacob’s Wells Road also has a coterie of cats to feed, only adding to its mounting debts.
is needed now More than ever
“Unfortunately the time has come for us to admit that we need a bit of help,” writes assistant manager Andy McWilliams on the Go Fund Me crowdfunding page.
McWilliams has set a target at £23,000, which will go towards the £8,000 costs of looking after the pub’s cats and to pay the rent arears of £15,000, “followed by supporting the cats through the next year whilst we get back up on our feet”.
Hopefully the doors to the Bag of Nails on St George’s Road will open again soon – photo: Martin Booth
McWilliams wrote: “Throughout this last year our glorious leader/landlord, Luke, has been fantastic.
“He’s kept us all employed despite uncertainty, he has made sure that when it has been legally possible, folks have been able to get high quality, super sexy, fresh cask and keg beers on draught, including getting out on the bike and bringing the beers to your home (what a weird year this has been haha) and he’s done a full refurb of the pub so it’s in tip top condition for when we can finally welcome you back.
“My worry is, with mounting debts and in spite of the government grants, the strict distancing restrictions in such a poky little pub and high outgoings of our monstrous cat food bill just might finish us off.
“This is why I’m asking if you can lend us a hand.”
Cats are a big part of what makes the Bag of Nails so special – photo: Barbara Evripidou
There will be branded Bag of Nails merchandise available to people who donate, including pint glasses, tote bags and t-shirts up for grabs.
Donations of £100 and more will also get you a private “cheese-rain” party with landlord Luke Daniels and the cats.
McWilliams added: “The cats have really missed you all giving them cuddles and playing with them and they can’t wait to knock your drink over again.
To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/f/luke-and-the-bag-of-nails-need-your-help
Inside the Bag of Nails (cats just out of shot) – photo: Martin Booth
Main photo: Barbara Evripidou
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