GO AD-FREE. Get 2 Months Digital Subscription for ONLY £1! Use code 2FOR1
GET STARTEDMore on KentOnline
GO AD-FREE. Get 2 Months Digital Subscription for ONLY £1! Use code 2FOR1
GET STARTEDMore on KentOnline
A businessman whose prosecco bar made innovative use of a closed down paddling pool during lockdown has given away part of his profits.
Craig Selby who runs Caffe Lambro spotted the unused space at Walmer Paddling Pool and contacted Dover District Council who agreed for him to use it during the summer.
His mobile bar was set up for 10 weekends in accordance with Your Leisure who usually operate the community space, with one condition - he made a charitable contribution at the end of his stay.
The agreement was that he would donate £1 from every drink sold on his last day of trading but he instead has chosen to give away a more substantial sum.
His £1,000 gesture to Victoria Hospital in Deal was recieved by Doris Thompson, chairman of the Friend of Deal Hospital on Monday.
He said: "We couldn't have done it without the support of the local community and it's nice to give back.
"We thought Deal Hospital was a suitable charity under the current climate and considering the strain the NHS is under.
"They, themselves, had events cancelled over the summer and are struggling for donations.
"They were very thankful."
Mr Selby's mobile bar, a 1968 restored VW Camper named Walter, delighted passers by who over the course of his stay consumed in excess of 5,000 cocktails.
Had it not been for coronavirus, he would have been working at LoveBox Festival, Isle of Wight Festival and Download Festival.
He said: "We had a great time at the paddling pool. It was small operation compared to what we're used to bit it was a great opportunity and trial run for the future.
"I think it's innovative ideas like this which will enable to bars to stay open. It looks like outside bars could be the future."
And Walter could be back next year.
He said: "We've secured music festivals for 2021 and hope to return to the likes of Glastonberry, Isle of Wight Festival and Download Festival.
"But we are liaising with Dover District Council and once events are confirmed, it's possible that Caffe Lambro will be running events in Deal next summer."
