A crowd funding campaign has been launched to save Scarborough's only Afro Caribbean restaurant after it became the target of hate crime and vandalism.
Restaurant owner Maya Mihoc says windows have been smashed and she has been physically attacked, but she says the local community have encouraged her to rebuild the restaurant.
Maya says being at the receiving end of targeted racism and hate crimes has been "nothing short of terrifying" and says the incidents have left her feeling vulnerable and deeply affected on a personal level.
Maya says that while the abuse has been horrendous, the community support has been heart-warming.
Maya says the money raised by the crowd funding appeal will be used to repair smashed windows and improve security at Big Meya's Jerk on Hoxton Road in the town.
Maya adds:
"Amidst the darkness, there remains a glimmer of hope. I refuse to let these trials defeat me or dim the light of Big Maya's Jerk. Thus, I'm launching this campaign to rally support from our community and beyond. Your contributions will not only fund crucial security measures but also ensure the continued operation of our beloved restaurant".
As well as hoping to reopen the restaurant Maya is also hoping to start a discussion around hate crimes. A piece of wood which was used in one of the racist attacks on the restaurant is to become part of a mural.
The wood was thrown though the window of Big Maya's Jerk.
Maya says it will now be turned into a mural to spark debate about diversity issues.
There is more information about Maya's crowd fund appeal at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/save-big-mayas-jerk
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