Help a Small Jamaican Food Business Recover After Generator Theft

Story

My name is Shereen Thompson-Spurgeon, and I run a Jamaican street food business called Back-a-Yard Cuisine & Reenie’s Dumplings, serving my local community.

I left my part-time role in the NHS to pursue my passion for food and to serve people with authentic Jamaican cooking passed down through my family.

Our business is especially known for Reenie’s Jerk Chicken Dumplings, which have been product-tested at the University of Nottingham Food Innovation Centre and proudly won the British Street Food Awards in 2024. My dream is to bring these award-winning dumplings to more communities so people can continue to enjoy them.

Why I’m Asking for Help

In October 2025, I hired a portable generator to trade at Nottingham Goose Fair, one of the UK’s largest public events, held annually at the Forest Recreation Ground.

The generator was left overnight on the official event site, which was secured and monitored by CCTV as part of the fair’s arrangements. When I returned, I was devastated to discover that the generator had been stolen.

I immediately reported the theft to the police and fully cooperated with the investigation. Sadly, despite the security measures in place, the generator was never recovered.

Because I had not taken out separate theft cover or a damage waiver with the hire company, I have been held legally responsible for the replacement cost, even though the theft was beyond my control.

How the Debt Grew

The generator was approximately 8 months old, yet I was invoiced for the full replacement value. The initial charge was £4,945, plus £447.57 in recovery and administration costs.

I tried to resolve the matter responsibly — providing the police report, explaining the circumstances, and requesting that the company consider depreciation or insurance options. Unfortunately, no reduction was offered, and I was given a short deadline to pay an amount I simply could not afford at once.

As a result, interest and legal fees were added, and the total amount now being pursued has risen to £7,532.34.

This has been emotionally overwhelming and financially devastating.

Why Your Help Matters

£7,500 is a life-changing amount of debt for a small independent trader like me. I’ve spent months trying to resolve this situation, but I’ve now reached a point where I need help to avoid further legal costs and close this painful chapter.

All funds raised will go directly toward settling the legal and replacement costs related to the stolen generator.

Even the smallest contribution makes a difference.

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page — visibility alone can be powerful support.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can offer.

With gratitude,

Shereen Thompson-Spurgeon

Back-a-Yard Cuisine & Reenie’s Dumplings

“From Yard to the World”