OWNERS of a pub are helping rough sleepers this Christmas by delivering goods to the homeless community.

Fran Snell, from The Red Lion in Powick, is appealing for donations which she will then deliver to the homeless in Worcester with her sister Rachel and mum Deb.

Fran, aged 23, from Worcester said: “For the last few years we have been wanting to do something to help the homeless.

“Last year we spoke to Maggs Day Centre. However, we found out that they charge people for meals, so we decided to do something ourselves.

“We heard about the heart-breaking news of a homeless man in Birmingham who was found frozen to death earlier this year. This is what inspired us to help.”

Fran added: “It has been rewarding.

“It’s nearly Christmas and it’s so cold outside, so we wanted to do something to help during the festive season.”

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The family went out on their first visit on Sunday, December 8 and helped three homeless men in a shop doorway in the Shambles.

Fran said: “They were so grateful and not greedy. When we offered them the scarves and everything, they just said no thank you - take it to someone who needs it. They were so polite.

“When we first arrived, the men looked scared. As soon as they realised that we were trying to help they were more open with us.

"They jokingly told us that they fancied a Chinese. So, we’re going back next week with Chinese food.”

The family will deliver a range of items, such as hats, coats, scarves, gloves, blankets, quilts, pillows and sleeping bags. They will also hand out food, which will be from the pub or bought from a shop.

Fran said: “Rather than throwing these items away, please consider donating them to the homeless in our city during these freezing temperatures.

“We will buy food such as cake and biscuits - treats they wouldn’t usually have, and also bring food from the pub. We have had loads of people get in touch. It’s been amazing.”

The family will deliver the goods every Sunday from 11pm.