A CROWD-FUNDING campaign has been launched to save a Barnard Castle bookshop from closing.
No.15 coffee shop and Curlews bookstore, in Market Place, were closed last month after strict lockdown rules were set by the Government to combat the coronavirus pandemic.
Now owner Emma Rowell fears the businesses will struggle to survive.
She said: “We decided to close for the safety of our community.
“We want to open again when we have conquered
this disease and it is safe to do so.”
In anticipation, she has launched a gofundme.com page on which she is hoping customers will donate an amount equal to what they would normally spend on their weekly coffee.
She said: “It will help us pay the rent and bills and protect the business, so that we can welcome you back. We are looking forward to bringing great books and author events and the best coffee, cakes and vegetarian and vegan food for miles.”
In addition, Ms Rowell has started a delivery service for books from Curlews, and bread, pies and coffee from the shop. Orders of £20 or more are delivered free in a 15-mile radius of the town.
For orders contact 07547 931296 or 07759 884035.
Ms Rowell is hoping to raise £25,000 to help the businesses survive and those wanting to support the campaign can search for Save the Bookshop on gofundme.com.
