The Railway Tavern

A true taste of ‘local’ Norfolk …

Local ‘not-for-profit’ provider of loans enables Norfolk chef to achieve his dream.

Foundation East, the not-for-profit provider of ethical loans to new and existing businesses in Norfolk and surrounding counties has helped The Railway Tavern, a public house in Poringland, get off the ground. The Railway’s owner, Michael Hunt, needed an additional amount to finish the refurbishment. The business has been up and running for over two years now and is proving popular. Without the loan from Foundation East, it would still be an idea…

Michael, a chef, had always dreamed of running his own business and when he came across The Railway at Poringland he knew this fitted his needs. He believes in using local food – he has even managed to source local supplies of organic flour – and making everything fresh – even the burger relish and curry pastes are made on premises. Now heading for his third summer Michael said ‘I have some wonderful summer menus arranged which will include fresh, local, Norfolk produce which I am sure my customers will enjoy’.

‘When I originally saw The Railway it needed a lot of work and whilst I was able to afford the pub I needed a little further financing to cover the costs of refitting and furnishings so I spoke to Foundation East. A loans officer from Foundation East came to visit me and talk about my business idea. She helped me with my application for a loan and was able to approve it pretty quickly, enabling me to move towards achieving my dream of setting up and running a successful and sustainable business,’ explained Michael.

‘I offer good locally sourced food at reasonable prices along with a friendly atmosphere. I am more than happy to supply special requirements for small to large parties and also provide outside catering services to weddings and parties,’ he added.