A RESTAURANT in Chepstow has been helping the homeless with free food over the festive season.

Staff at Sahara Grill, a Lebanese restaurant in Moor Street, handed out free food for much of the day on Christmas Eve.

Restaurant owner Gamal Omran said it is something he has done before elsewhere, and he felt it was important to spread some festive goodwill.

“I am from Egypt and I celebrate Eid, and we often use that time to remember those less fortunate and to let people know that they are not alone,” said Mr Omran.

Staff at the restaurant worked hard throughout the day packing the food into takeaway boxes for anyone who needed it.

Mr Omran, who is also a support worker at New Directions in Cardiff, added: “We see the event as a family celebration, and it makes me sad to think some people are alone on the street. If I was in that situation, I would like someone to be with me.

“I hope at Christmas time especially, people can take some time to think about what they can do for others. They are my traditional values and I think I share those values with most people here too.”