Hi, I'm Cales, Chef-Owner of Vitamin Sea. I am trying to raise funds to make my dream become a reality!

I have lived in Cullompton since 2016, and absolutely love this little town. Over the last 3 years I have involved myself in many town projects and formed a group called The Cullompton Collective, hosting community workshops & events. For the last year I have committed myself to getting Cully recognised as a foodie town, by raising the profile of Vitamin Sea, attending the market with my horsebox, and also supporting other local independent food establishments with trade and promotional activities.

On 19th March 2018 I opened my first restaurant on Fore Street, and in early 2019, thanks to the support & commitment of my team, achieved a Gold Taste of The West Award. This was great recognition for all the hard work.

Unfortunately the restaurant business has not been plain sailing. In April of this year I encountered several issues with waste management in the area. At the time, this was very distressing & prompted me to look for a more suitable location. Additionally, I hoped to find a larger premises to expand Vitamin Sea with a smoker, bar & cocktail lounge, bringing something unique to Cullompton & attracting more trade into the town.

As luck would have it, a suitable premises became available - 10 High Street, Cullompton. So, I made the decision to close Vitamin Sea in June & apply for the necessary licences required to set up a bigger, better restaurant. I had hoped to re-open in Aug, but rather unfortunately, MDDC had other ideas. With one thing or another the application process was delayed by 5 months! This has impacted on my own income, or rather lack of it, leaving me in a very difficult financial situation.

I am now looking to raise the funds to carry the plans forward & open Vitamin Sea, now that the application has finally been approved! Thank you to everyone who has supported me, I hope that with your help, we will be able to open very soon! ⚓❤