Pair to launch retro gaming hub in 16th-century Mansfield cave
A 16th-century cave beneath the streets of Mansfield is being transformed into a retro gaming emporium and you can be part of this unique journey.
Business partners Tommy Keough and Sarah Scothern are appealing for support to help get Sproggler’s Cave up and running in the unique location in White Lion Yard, Church Street.
The pair are transforming the historic cave, dating back to 1584, into a one-stop-shop for gaming enthusiasts featuring table top gaming, video games, arcade machines, collectibles and books.
The determined pair who are self-funding the business and rolling their sleeves up in a bid to transform the cave are appealing to residents to support them on their journey.
An online fundraising page has been set up for those who want to support the fledgling business.
Tommy, aged 41, said: “Our vision is to create far more than just a retro gaming shop. We're building a community, a place where people can meet, play tabletop games, discover retro gaming, browse collectibles and books, and simply spend time with like-minded people.
"It will be a hybrid place where gamers have the best of both worlds, a place to rent a chair and play table top games, enjoy snacks and hang out with friends and a place to enjoy retro arcade games, shop and trade.
“Everything we're building is being funded by ourselves. We haven't taken out a business loan, we don't have investors. We are determined and the place will open regardless but we can open a lot sooner if people are able to donate.”
Those who donate will have their names immortalised in the cave on a wall of appreciation.
Tommy added: "If you'd like to help us create something truly special for Mansfield a little sooner, we'd be incredibly grateful for any support. Bringing this amazing historic location back to life.
"Whether it's £1 or £100, every contribution helps us buy materials, furniture, gaming tables, shelving, lighting and everything else needed to transform these historic caves into something special.
“This isn't just our shop. We hope it becomes Mansfield's gaming community home.”
Renovations are already well underway in the cave, that has been empty for the past 10 years, including the addition of a stunning hand painted mural.