Save our business Tutts Clump Cider Ltd

Dear friends,

I’m reaching out during a challenging time and could really use your support. Many of you know me as Tim Wale, the guy who’s been tinkering with engines since leaving school in 1974 to work at John Wilder Ltd, and later driving buses for Reading Corporation Transport. My passion for mechanics led me to start my own business, Tim Wale Ltd, while continuing to drive buses part-time.

In 2006, I ventured into making cider as a hobby, which quickly grew into a thriving business, Tutts Clump Cider Ltd, established in 2008. By 2016, cider had become the mainstay of our operations, prompting me to focus fully on it with my two youngest daughters joining full time. In 2017, we expanded significantly, investing £200k in new equipment with the support of shareholders.

However, the 2020 lockdown was a severe hit. With no sales to pubs, restaurants, or at events, our income plummeted, though overheads remained over £11k a month. Despite some government support, I had to use all my personal resources, including my private pension saved over 43 years and my inheritance, to keep us afloat.

Sales have picked up slightly, but we’re still far from our pre-2020 levels, and many of our customers have sadly gone out of business. With cash flow issues compounded by delayed customer payments and ongoing lease payments due this year, plus a bank loan, the situation is critical.

I’m currently working over 95 hours a week, including weekends driving buses, to support my business and my team. We're determined not to become just another statistic, and I'm asking for your help to keep our award-winning cider business going and to save three jobs.

Your support would mean the world to us. Thank you for considering.

Disclaimer: No raffles, sweepstakes, giveaways, or promotions are offered in exchange for any donations made to this GoFundMe.