Customers dig deep to save their favourite Lace Market coffee shop

CUSTOMERS are holding a whip-round to save their favourite coffee shop.

Regulars at Divine Coffee House, the Lace Market, want to raise up to £7,500 to help owner Ashe Wright set up elsewhere in the city.

It comes after Mr Wright last week received three months' notice to move out of his premises in High Pavement, as the landlord wants to redevelop the site.

Supporters of the coffee shop set up an online fund-raising campaign this week, and have already brought in nearly £200.

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Mr Wright, 30, of Drayton Street, Sherwood, said: "I joked about fund-raising, but the offers of help and support I've had from regulars are quite overwhelming.

"I've turned the cafe around over the last two years and it's time to take that next step.

"I'm seeing this as a positive and a chance to build the business with customers' help."

People who pledge their support to the coffee shop could be offered anything from a free hot drink to a year's discount on hot drinks, and free venue hire at the new premises.

However, Mr Wright said most people who have donated have not asked for anything in return.

He said: "We have a loyal following and are looking to open up elsewhere. Customers raising money could catch on, especially for small independent places.

"People think if they give to local businesses it's doing that bit more for their community, and they can see the positive impact for themselves too."

Divine regular Leanne Scott came up with the idea to raise money for the shop.

Ms Scott, 31, of Ashfield Road, Sneinton, said: "Ashe told me the business was going to have to move. It's such a shame because I know so many people who go there and use it for events.

"Ashe would never ask people for help or expect them to help. We cannot let the business just go.

"I know all the work he has put into it. At the end of the day, people should support their local independent places.

"We want to get him up on his feet and up and running.

"I think the target is achievable. It's really important for people to support their local businesses and not just let them struggle on, because they bring something unique to where we live."

Money raised will help secure a deposit, rental and renovation costs for new premises.

To donate online visit www.indiegogo.com/projects/338809/. For more information call Divine Coffee Shop on 0115 9897341.