James Bond Star’s generous donation helps secure the future of Brimscombe Mill, a vital community space supporting local projects

In a heartwarming act of generosity, Daniel Craig, the five-time James Bond actor, has stepped in to save a community hub in Stroud, Gloucestershire, with a £50,000 donation. The money was given to Brimscombe Mill, a venue that houses a variety of vital community projects, after it was revealed that the building had been sold, leaving the organisations based there facing eviction and job losses.

The donation has been described as an “incredible” gesture by Tom Herbert, the director of Brimscombe Mill and co-founder of one of the centre’s key initiatives, The Long Table. The group provides meals to those in need, operating under a pay-as-you-can model. Herbert expressed how Craig’s financial support would not only ensure the mill’s survival but also enable the community initiatives to continue to thrive and deepen their impact in the area.

The mill had been given a six-month notice in March to vacate the premises after the building was sold. This news sent shockwaves through the organisations using the space, forcing many of them to set up new locations, including The Long Table, which recently opened a site in Cirencester. However, for many, the disruption was devastating, particularly as the community hub had been a lifeline to those it served, providing everything from meals to community events.

Herbert shared that when the eviction notice arrived “out of the blue,” it felt as though the ground had “disappeared” beneath them. With little preparation and no financial safety net, the future of the mill and its services appeared uncertain. “The thing that happened to us threatened our whole existence,” Herbert recalled. But it was the response from the local community that made all the difference. Residents quickly rallied, launching a campaign to save the hub, with many offering ideas and support to keep the space open.

While Herbert is unsure exactly how Craig came to hear about the project, he believes that local press coverage helped spread the word to national outlets. He praised Craig for his swift and impactful response, noting, “It obviously landed with him and made an impression. We’re super grateful that he heard the cry and answered.”

The support from Craig, combined with the local community’s extraordinary efforts, has created a sense of renewed hope for the future of Brimscombe Mill. Herbert said the space had become a vital part of the community, offering not just physical resources like meals and activities but also fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

The mill, which has been home to projects like The Bike Drop, Kids Stuff, and The Home Remedy, has provided a safe and supportive environment for people in need. Since opening in 2021, The Long Table alone has served more than 38,000 meals, supporting individuals and families struggling with food insecurity.

Craig’s donation ensures that these services will continue, allowing local initiatives to flourish without the looming threat of eviction. For many, the mill has become a symbol of community strength, and with Craig’s help, it looks set to remain a cornerstone of Stroud life for years to come.