A GROUP of Newport businesses have joined together to bring free food to vulnerable members of society in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Paprika Indian Takeaway, King Kebab and N&B Cash and Carry delivered over 200 parcels of food to residents across Newport, including to elderly and homeless people, yesterday - with staff working for free and volunteers helping to deliver the food.

South Wales Argus:

Shaz Miah has organised Paprika and King Kebabs in Newport to help feed the vulnerable during the Coronavirud outbreak. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk

N&B Cash and Carry donated all of the food for the scheme, with Paprika and King Kebab cooking the meals.

Organiser and volunteer Shaz Miah explained the aim of the scheme, and said they have been inundated with messages from people needing their help.

“There are so many vulnerable people, especially with what is going on in the world at the moment, and we wanted to show that we were there for people,” he said.

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The scheme was King Kebab and Paprika’s final act before they temporarily closed down.

Mr Miah continued: “These businesses have received so much support from the people of Newport over the last few years, so when we get the chance to say 'thank you', it’s important we do that and give something back.

“We also want people to know that the Muslim community is one with every other person, and we’re all the same. We want to show Islam in a positive light.

South Wales Argus:

Cooking for the vulnerable and homeless. L-R Badrul Haque, Emon Khan, Shaz Miah and Sham Miah from Paprika and King Kebabs in Newport prepare free meals during the Coronavirud outbreak. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk

“It’s been so humbling to turn up to people’s houses and see them waiting at the door.”

All the food donated has now gone, with the project deemed a huge success.

Mr Miah has now offered further help to co-ordinate similar schemes for other food establishments.

To contact Mr Miah, email miah.shajan@gmail.com.