Managed by Rivers Capital Partners, the regional loan scheme is designed to support start-ups and small businesses looking for simple loans to expand their operations.
Offering a range of distinctive, healthy food influenced by traditional British and international recipes, The Duckhouse uses top quality, fresh ingredients that are locally sourced. A dining experience intent on delighting taste buds, the menu changes every 3 months to follow seasonal produce.
Young entrepreneur and Managing Partner Jack Lapping founded the venture in March 2015. His passion for cuisine and hospitality experience helped him realise his dream of becoming a restaurateur. With plans to grow The Duckhouse and expand the events side of the business, his ambition knows no bounds.
Jack said, “Since I started the business in 2015 we have grown from strength to strength, we now offer over 55 Gins on our cocktail bar and operate on a fully booked restaurant every week! It has been a challenge but it’s been worth it!”
The microloan enabled Jack to refurbish the premises with lighting and window dressings inspired by Fiona Davidson Interiors. With a creative outlook and an eye for interior design, Jack and Fiona chose to source soft furnishings and local art work to complement the Town Hall Building’s historic periodic features and offer a relaxing space for diners. The restaurant will be available for local artists to exhibit their work and sell to the public, adding to the ambience of the venue.
Kristine Murane, Investment Executive at Rivers Capital said, “We are always on the lookout for local entrepreneurs with a great idea as well as the enthusiasm and drive to make it work and Jack fits the bill perfectly.
“A fantastic example to other young entrepreneurs we look forward to watching his business grow from strength to strength.”
Jack commented, “The application process was very straight forward. The Rivers team made the process as smooth as possible!”
The Microloan Fund is committed to providing straightforward loans anywhere between £1,000 up to £50,000 to small businesses looking to start-up or grow. Managers of the Fund, Rivers Capital Partners base their decisions on the quality of the business rather than its assets. It is a quick and easy process, with successful applicants receiving the money on average within two weeks.