A Sussex brewery’s crowdfund appeal to open a community café reached its initial £7,500 target in record time.

The response has prompted Three Acre brewery, near Heathfield, to up the target to £12,500 to secure a better venue for a brew café in Uckfield town centre. The extra money will also mean more events and live music, a greater variety of locally sourced food and drink plus improved furniture and lighting upgrades.

Already, the £10,000 ceiling is about to be broken.

“We were blown away by the tremendous online support our plans had,” said Three Acre director Chester Broad. “The enthusiasm was just incredible, and we reached our bare minimum target very quickly; that means we can now improve our basic plans to create a community venue of the highest quality.”

One benefactor, Pete C, said he is “happy to contribute and hopes it will be the first of many venues the brewery opens”.

According to Sally R it will be the “best thing that's happened in Uckfield for years ... and it's desperately needed”. Sentiments echoed by Billy Stevens who feels it’s “exactly what Uckfield town could do with”.

As contributor Nicholas pointed out, the brewer’s efforts are bucking a national trend. “In a world where beer venues are closing all the time, I welcome a new local taproom”.

Among the many supporters in Uckfield, David J says it is the “best way to fill empty premises” and will “help to bring more local establishments”. And Lee C agreed that it will be “an excellent addition to Uckfield High Street.”

Many supporters, including Doug L, are looking forward to opening night. He said he’s “delighted to be supporting Three Acre brewery – love your beer and look forward to the official opening of the Tap Room”. For Joseph C, he’s “looking forward to some proper beer in Uckfield at last!”

“We agree wholeheartedly with the online comments,” says director and head brewer Jamie Newton. “Uckfield is crying out for somewhere like this and we hope it becomes an important hub in the community, that’s certainly our aim.”

More details at: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/three-acre-brewery-brew-cafe

Pictured, from left, Three Acre directors Chester Broad, Jamie Newton and Peter Mayhew