17-07-2025
Fundraiser launched for cafe hit by Kilmarnock fire
Hasab Mohammed, owner of Sixtyone Café in Kilmarnock, lost his business in the King Street fire but was relieved no one was inside.
A cafe owner who put in "decades of tireless effort" to achieve his dream is aiming to rebuild after the devastating King Street fire.
Hasab Mohammed, owner of Sixtyone Café which was destroyed in the fire on Monday night, had put his heart and soul into opening the cafe with "the best coffee in Kilmarnock".
A family man who moved to Scotland from a small village in Sudan as a result of the Sudanese Civil War over 20 years ago, Hasab achieved his dream when opened up Sixtyone Café six years ago.
It had become a popular venue in the town centre and Hasab was proud of the business which became a success because the town "stood with me".
Following the fire, a fundraiser has been set up to help rebuild Sixtyone Café which has already raised more than £2,000.
Hasab said he "believes in this community" because it has taken him in and helped him establish a well-liked, successful café.
Despite the effects of the fire on his business, Hasab said he was "happy" that no one was inside and that he is still able to provide for his family.
Speaking to Ayrshire Live, Hasab said: "It was my dream to have my own business. I saved every single penny for my future.
"It was our six years of opening the business just recently. At times, I was struggling to get customers in but I built up customers and had a good relationship with them.
"We do the best coffee in Kilmarnock I've been told. Everyone left satisfied. I was happy for every single customer that came into my shop."
Late on Monday evening, Hasab received a phone call to say the cafe was on fire and he quickly made his way down to the scene to see what was happening.
He added: "The fire didn't just take flames to bricks and mortar - it swept through my memories, my present reality, and the dreams I'd worked so hard to build for the future.
"Decades of tireless effort, of sacrifice, of saying no to life's smallest luxuries just so I could say yes to one dream: opening my own café.
"Sixtyone Café wasn't just a business. It was my story, my struggle, and a symbol of hope. It stood because this city stood with me - every kind word, every loyal customer, every helping hand gave it life.
"Now I find myself starting from ashes. And while the fire took much, it didn't take my spirit.
"I'm reaching out once more, not for charity—but for solidarity. Even the smallest gesture will help rebuild what was lost.
"I believe in this community because you've helped me rise before, and I know together, we can do it again."
Emergency services were called to the King Street fire shortly before 9pm on Monday evening. A large cordon was put in place and a number of businesses remain closed today, Wednesday, July 16.
Police have appealed for information and are treating the fire as wilful.
