Matt Gillan launches crowdfunding bid to relaunch Sussex pub

Chef Matt Gillan has launched a crowdfunding campaign in a bid to transform an Edwardian pub in West Sussex into a destination venue.

The former chef/director of Red Roaster and Pike & Pine in Brighton hopes to transform the five-bedroom Chequers pub in Slaugham, which has been closed for two years.

Writing on his crowdfunding page Gillan said: "Of course there will be a major focus on the food and drink, but the idea is to create something more than just that. The Chequers lends itself to so much more.

"Having been closed for two years, it is essentially a blank canvas. Not just from a decor point of view, but mostly a character view. It used to be a pub. Now it's a shell needing soul.

"There will be a shift from pub to a restaurant with rooms, but we want to retain the accessibility and informality of its former life, and make the space part of the community once again."

Gillan plans to offer a set lunch menu, à la carte menu and signature tasting menu in the restaurant with a small bar menu available in more casual areas. The restaurant will also have a 16-cover private dining room.

Sussex providers will contribute to the wine, beer and cider offers, with lists including products exclusive to the Chequers.

Gillan is looking to raise £60,000, with more than £4,000 already pledged. Rewards will include names on an ambassador wall, vouchers, tickets to a pre-launch party, the chance to name a bedroom or to have Gillan cook in your home.

The chef, who appeared in series eight and 10 of the BBC's Great British Menu, had previously held a Michelin star at the Pass restaurant in the South Lodge hotel in Lower Beeding, near Horsham.

His CV also includes stints at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, London; the Vineyard at Stockcross, Berkshire; and Midsummer House in Cambridge.

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