Pubs in London may have been forced to close again on Christmas day, but a local in Richmond kept its doors open for those in need.
After a summer of supplying meals to the community, The Angel & Crown, in Church Court, invited vulnerable guests back to enjoy a hearty Christmas dinner.
The pub’s ‘grab and go’ food service offered a warm meal and presents to 30 people in Richmond, who otherwise might have gone without.
A traditional roast turkey, desserts, and clothing was provided, as well as gift bags donated by Shepherd’s Star charity.
Mr Botting said: “Christmas is such a special time of year for all of us. It’s our job to make sure every member of our community gets to enjoy it.”
During the first nationwide lockdown landlord, Nick Botting, teamed up with local homeless charities to provided food, toiletries, travel passes, clothing and sleeping bags to residents.
And in September 2020 the pub was nationally recognised in the hospitality “lockdown heroes” awards.
Manageress Hannah Lawson added:
“We love being a pub that is a traditional public house. Being the centre of community. We could not do it without the support of others.
“Our patrons, Glassdoor and SPEAR have been fantastic in supporting us. Both in the first lockdown and now. I also have to mention Richmond Tattoo Studio for providing us with some great T-shirts. The whole community helped out at Christmas.’
Now that services remain closed due to the new COVID-19 variant, the team at Angel & Crown are aiming to continue their breakfast and dinner services into the new year.
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