James Cochran calls on restaurants to help raise £10,000 for St Vincent Volcano Relief fund
James Cochran, chef-owner of 12:51 restaurant in London's Islington, is looking to raise £10,000 to donate to Saint Vincent following the eruption of its La Soufrière volcano earlier this month, which has displaced around 20,000 people.
To raise funds for the Caribbean island named after the patron saint of wine, Cochran is asking UK restaurants to donate £1 from every bottle of wine sold from now until 12:51 reopens on 18 May, after which the restaurant will take over and has pledged to match the amount raised by doing the same to reach the £10,000 target.
From 30 April, a limited-edition Saint Vincent and the Grenadines burger will be sold through Cochran's Around the Cluck service for eat-in, takeaway or delivery at £14. All money from the sale of the burger will go to the fund.
The chef will also be auctioning a dinner for two tasting menu and drinks experience at 12:51 for whoever donates the most money to the fundraiser before 18 May.
Cochran said: "For those of you who know me, you'll likely know the island and its people mean everything to me. My mum was from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and so, its culture and heritage has helped shape the man I am today…
"I personally guarantee that the money will get to the people who need it the most in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines by working with local charities and organisations who are there, on the ground."
He added: "I know with your support and the hospitality community behind us we can reach that figure – and beyond."
Donations can be made here. Restaurants looking to get involved in supporting the £1 from every bottle of wine, contact 1251@saucecommunications.com.
