The owner of two thriving Lancashire restaurants is hoping to expand his empire in Chester – and he’s asking for the city’s foodies to dig deep to make it happen.

The Olive Tree Brasserie is already a huge success in its current two locations in Preston and Lytham St Annes but founder and director Dean Wilson is determind to branch out further by bringing its modern Greek fare to Chester with a new eatery.

Adopting an innovative approach to funding the venture, a bid has been launched on online funding platform Kickstarter with the aim of reaching £100,000.

The Olive Tree Brasserie specialises in modern Greek food
The Olive Tree Brasserie specialises in modern Greek food

In return for parting with their cash, backers receive rewards determined by how much they pledge.

Rewards include a Christmas party package for 20 people for pledges of between £800 and £1,750, or a pre-race day lunch with fizz for those between £35 and £45.

Dean has poured the past eight and a half years into building the Olive Tree Brasserie brand and making Greek dining more accessible.

“There’s plenty of Greek restaurants in the south of the country but there’s just not enough choice for modern greek food in the North,” he said.

The campaign has already won the support of celebrities like Emmerdale’s Adam Barton.

Dean added: “I feel very lucky to have received so many messages of support for this project.

“It’s something I hope fuels lots of interest as we look to support and develop the team whilst providing Chester with a truly wonderful dining experience.”

To back the project – which will only be funded if at least £100,000 is pledged by May 28 – click here.