Gladiator star Russell Crowe donates £5k to save UK bookshop hit by Covid and cost of living crisis
GLADIATOR star Russell Crowe has donated £5,000 to help save an independent book shop.
The Oscar-winning actor contributed to a crowdfunding campaign launched this week.
He pledged support for Bookbugs and Dragon Tales in Norwich, Norfolk.
Bosses Dan and Leanne Fridd were stunned to see the name “Russell Ira Crowe” next to the cash pledge.
Dan, 46, said: “At about 10.30pm on Thursday I noticed the figure jumped from about £3,000 to £8,000.
“Then Leanne read the name.
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“It’s such a kind gesture.”
They found out mutual acquaintances had shared their plight with Crowe, 58.
Covid and the cost of living crisis have hit the shop which opened in 2019.
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But it has now raised more than £9,500 towards a £15,000 target.
Leanne, 42, thanked all donors and said the money will “allow the company to ensure its future”.