A PUB landlord has told of how man he gave a free meal to was so hungry he burst into tears in gratitude.

Craig Harker, who runs The George on Stockton High Street, explained that he gave free meals to about six homeless and destitute people on Sunday for the first time rather than the food going in the bin.

He has also started a 'giving board,' so customers can buy an extra coffee or meal which can then be claimed by someone going through hard times.

The Northern Echo: The 'giving wall' at The George on Stockton High Street where customers can donate a drink or a meal to those less fortunate
The 'giving wall' at The George on Stockton High Street where customers can donate a drink or a meal to those less fortunate

Mr Harker said: "There was a lad came in, he was maybe in his early 30s, and he was in floods of tears. He hadn't eaten in two days. He was so grateful, he didn't stop thanking us. I was nearly filling up myself. There was a woman in her late 60s came in who hadn't eaten either.

"Altogether there was only six people and it was good to give them food that would have gone in the bin. I'm going to do it every week and make soup to be sure that anyone genuinely hungry can get something to eat. The giving board is doing well and we've had hundreds of 'likes' on Facebook. The council has also put something round about it to the employees so we had a few people will come in maybe buy an extra drink for someone who really needs it."

Mr Harker and his team will distribute food to homeless people every Sunday from 5pm to 7pm.