Portsmouth FC player Christian Burgess delivers fish and chips to vulnerable city residents
VULNERABLE residents who are struggling during the coronavirus pandemic have been given a morale boost by one of Pompey's stars.
Portsmouth FC defender Christian Burgess has spent the day driving around the city, delivering fish and chips to people.
His deliveries were part of an initiative by Enable Ability, which has a cafe at Landport Community Centre.
The Crispy Cod, a fish and chip shop in Locksway Road, Milton, prepared 80 meals to be distributed by the charity.
Volunteer Jeanette Warren said: ‘Throughout this pandemic it has been small businesses that have gone out of their way to help others.
‘We are so grateful to companies like The Crispy Cod for doing their part to help others.’
Staff inside the store were cooking up a storm all morning, churning out free food for vulnerable residents while also serving their regular customers.
Christian Burgess, who has been keeping busy with charity work since the outbreak of coronavirus in the UK, said it's a ‘brilliant’ feeling to serve the community.
He said: ‘It’s been a great experience, doing stuff like this.
‘It’s really kind of The Crispy Cod to donate so much food and I’m so grateful that there’s so much to deliver.
‘The community has really worked together as of late, and I hope that continues.’
The Pompey defender added that he will continue to do charity work for as long as he is needed.
Fellow players Ben Close, Sean Raggett and Cameron McGeehan have also been volunteering their time.
Gavin Randall, cafe manager at Landport Community Centre, described Burgess as a ‘cult figure’ and an inspiration to others.
He said: ‘When I go door-to-door doing deliveries, I’m just Gavin – but to have a Pompey star deliver food to your door is very special for Blues fans in the city.
‘He seems to genuinely enjoy doing this, which shows just how much he cares about this city.
‘These guys are so much more than just footballers – they’re true community figureheads.’