TOPIC:

I have heard a few potential investors say recently that they might hold back putting in a share application until they see how well the subscriptions are going.

Obviously, if everyone did that, it would become a sort of self-fulfilling prophecy amongst the more cautious investors who may want to leave it until March 19th before committing themselves.

I have also heard someone suggest that a sort of pictorial 'thermometer' (like they sometimes put on churches for roof-repair funds or whatever) could be put up on the wall of The Bell, to show how the subscriptions are building up in the run-up to the cut-off date, which is just around the corner. There could also - more importantly - be a virtual version on the website, for those who do not actually go into the pub.

It also occurred to me that because The Bell has now become an internationally famous venue for live music, I wonder if the British musicians union (or performing rights organisations) has a similar option of fund-raising as many theatre productions have when they approach 'Theatrical Angels' - people who are more motivated by keeping the arts companies and performances going than they are by profit, even though there is profit to be had? These potential investors could - I believe - approach the bank directly to apply for bonds, or simply go in for the standard share application forms. Perhaps this has also occurred to Steve Henwood?

Just a couple of thoughts.

Hi Bushy!



Yes, I too have heard people saying that they would wait to see what others did before committing themselves. Which would indeed provide much food for discussion three months hence when sitting in a chain pub or worse, looking at Sky Sports screens and fruit machines rather than the most vibrant live music the SW can offer:)


As for an update, I can confirm that we are on course and confident, having moved healthily into six figures. Now that we have EIS approval for tax relief and a facility for direct bank transfers in operation from tomorrow, we expect that many who were waiting on these developments will be getting their investments in. HOWEVER, there is a tight time limit here and I cannot stress enough the need to act now, rather than at an unspecified future date. This is a competitive bid situation, and others are also trying to buy the pub.

Can I also remind all potential investors, that you would get your money back in its entirety withing three weeks of the close of the share offer, in the unlikely event of our failure. It seems a small risk to take, in order to safeguard all that The Bell represents and provides.

For those still wishing to ask questions or to air other thoughts, we will be offering a 4th open meeting in the Love Lounge this coming Saturday at 12.30pm, before Hattie gets going with screenings of the new Saved By The Bell film."

Patrick