Coronavirus: Port Solent chefs vow to cook 100 free curries a day for isolated pensioners

Kind-hearted chefs from Port Solent’s India Quay have vowed to cook a free meal for up to 100 vulnerable residents everyday.

Sonny Ahmed, who runs the family-owned restaurant with his nephew, Ishy, said he wanted to do something to help those in most need.

It comes as thousands of over-70s across the area face up to three months in lock down under emergency health measures outlined by Boris Johnson on Monday.

Mr Ahmed said he would roll out his new service ‘as soon as possible’ – potentially later this week.

He added: ‘We want people to know that they’re not alone. We don’t want them to struggle.

‘There are a lot of people that are very worried out there. They don’t know where the next meal is coming from.

‘We just want to give back and show those lonely people that they’re not alone.’

Every day the restaurant will prepare fresh meals, which will be delivered to the most vulnerable residents within a one-mile radius, covering parts of Cosham, Paulsgrove and Portchester.

On the menu will include dishes like lamb and chicken bhuna, ‘packed with vegetables and spices’, said Mr Ahmed.

The effort comes as the restaurant faces its own struggle to survive, with fewer customers expected to come through the doors during the pandemic.

SEE ALSO: The Portsmouth pubs and restaurants staying amid the uncertainty

‘We know that at times like this the elderly can get forgotten about – well we won’t forget them. We want to help,’ Mr Ahmed added.

The selfless work has been praised by Penny Mordaunt, Portsmouth North MP, who said: ‘India Quay have made a very generous offer and are an example of the incredible community support shown by individuals and community groups across our city.

‘The isolation measures and the strain on business will be here for sometime. So we need to keep working together and helping in the coming weeks.

‘Every bit helps and I want to say a huge thank you to all who are stepping up.’

India Quay has teamed up with Copnor-based wholesalers Bookers, who are assisting them with logistics and supplies.

Lloyd Gillingham, delivery manager at the store, said: ‘I’m proud of what we’re doing to help.

‘This isn’t being altruistic, it’s about helping those people who really need it. That’s a message that comes from the top down all the way down in Bookers.’

Mr Ahmed said the food offering was only for vulnerable and isolated residents from the poorest communities. To be considered for a curry parcel, call 023 9238 7559.

Mr Ahmed has also appealed for other businesses to join the initiative, offering their own food or services.

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS