'Not a great start to 2026': Merseyside bistro forced to close after heartbreaking fire
A bistro in Merseyside has closed until further notice due to a devastating fire.
Jay's Bistro has had to shut its doors after the incident in the early hours of New Year's Day.
The fire is believed to have started after a ‘rogue firework’ landed on the roof of a shed before being blown into the back of the independent venue on Old Chester Road in Bebington.
In a Facebook post, the bistro wrote: “Due to a fire at Jay’s, we will unfortunately be closed until further notice.
“We are all heartbroken.
“Not a great start to 2026”.
The bistro has also started a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for reopening and to support staff during the closure
The crowdfunder says: “For seven years, Jay’s Bistro has been more than just a place to eat. It’s been a familiar, friendly space where locals come to relax, catch up, and feel at home.
“Recently, we were honoured to take on Jay’s Bistro under new ownership, excited to carry forward everything people love about it while building its future.
“Shortly after midnight on New Years Day, 2026, a fire forced us to close our doors — suddenly and without warning.
“While the building will be repaired, the impact goes far beyond walls and equipment.
“Our small team lost their livelihoods overnight, and the heart of the bistro went quiet.
“The days ahead are filled with waiting, rebuilding, and costs that insurance simply doesn’t cover.
“This crowdfunder is about keeping our people supported during this difficult period and helping us get back on our feet as quickly as possible.
“Every donation helps sustain our team, protect what we’ve built together, and bring Jay’s Bistro back to life.
“Thank you for standing with us. We can’t wait to welcome you back through our doors.”