BOTTELINO’S is set to re-open today with new management after a Halloween stabbing at the Italian restaurant brought the business to a halt for almost two weeks.

A campaign has also been launched to help former managers – twins Scott and Luke Jacobs – start a new venture as the incident has led them to lose their jobs following fresh concerns over alcohol licensing.

Investigations are still ongoing but it is alleged a fight was sparked by gate-crashers during a private party at the restaurant in Penzance Drive in the early hours of Sunday, October 30.

A man was seriously assaulted but is now out of hospital and recovering at home, police confirmed yesterday. Three men were also arrested and released on bail.

Scott said: “Bottelino’s will be opening and continuing to trade as usual under new management but me and Luke will not be part of it.

“There are no hard feelings. The restaurant is going ahead as usual for Christmas and taking bookings and looking to continue business.

“We are still in contact with the owners, I’ve said if they need any help or advice we’ll be there.

“We didn’t expect this but we are moving on. It was everything we'd worked hard for, our pride and joy, gone after years of hard work.”

Scott added: “We are not sure what the venture will be but we’ve got a taste for running our own business. We are so grateful for all the support.”

The online campaign, set up by the twins’ mum Lynne, has raised £1,320 of out the £5,000 goal in just a couple of days. Donations have come from businesses in the town, including Goldsworthy's Hairdressing and entrepreneur Alan Mok who owns Swindon Rendezvous restaurant.

In a heartfelt plea, Lynne said: “I have never seen my boys so devastated, depressed and heartbroken over losing something that meant so much to them and I feel lost as I don't know how to help.

“If you know the boys, you'll know throughout this time they've done everything they can to support those in need. The reason we have set up this page is to help them get back up on their feet and get them back to doing what they love most.

“All monies raised will go towards my boys starting up a new venture which I believe they so deserve. This will mean the world to me because right from being 16 they have worked their little butts off and have worked such long hours and never complained, this was because they loved doing what they do.”

Bottelino's head office were approached for a comment but did not respond before the Adver went to press.

Donations can be made at: gofundme.com/jacobs-brothers-come-back-fund

A spokesperson for Swindon Borough Council said: “Following the recent serious incident at Bottelino’s restaurant, the licensee has been working closely with the Council’s licensing department and Wiltshire Police to urgently address the situation.

"This has resulted in the premises closing voluntarily whilst any necessary changes are made before it is in a position to reopen. So far the Licensing Committee has not had any involvement.”