Fox & Goose community pub in Hebden Bridge appeal to cover and heat the beer garden

The Fox and Goose in Hebden Bridge is the first community-owned pub in West Yorkshire.

It is owned by its 300 shareholder members and operates as a co-operative with an elected board of directors. A salaried staff team has run the pub since it opened as a co-operative pub in March 2014: it was due to celebrate our sixth birthday in March 2020 when it had to shut down due to Covid-19.

Alongside serving real ales from microbrewers, real ciders, and craft lager on draught, the Fox and Goose is a community pub, with a strong co-operative ethos.

They hold regular music and arts events, contribute to local festivals, and are a hub for walkers and other local groups.

The Fox and Goose has, as with all other pubs, found operating as a thriving community pub during the Covid pandemic and Government restrictions very challenging and as a result have launched a Covid-19 crowdfunding appeal.

The hard-working and dedicated staff team and directors have made a number of changes since March to create an expanded garden, enabling the pub to remain open over the summer and into the autumn.

Whilst customers have enthusiastically and responsibly adapted to the new conditions, the onset of winter and continuing Covid restrictions mean that without more robust shelter and heating, the pub will not be able to accommodate the number of customers it needs.

Hannah Nadim, Chair of the Fox and Goose’s Board of Directors said: “We recognise that it has been a difficult time for many people. We are asking people to share information about the appeal and, if they are able, to donate to the fund. The Fox and Goose, along with many small businesses in Hebden Bridge, really appreciate the support of local people: we want to be there for you when we can in order to start our collective recovery in 2021 and onwards.”.