Babul's Darlington opened its doors on Christmas Day for the needy

Babul’s on Skinnergate has been “overwhelmed” by the number of volunteers and donations over the past week, including Taylor’s Butchers, Morrison’s on North Road, Aldi on Yarm Road and JJ Blair and Sons greengrocer in Darlington Indoor Market.

The popular restaurant welcomed over 40 people between 11am and 3pm on Sunday (December 25), showing the community that help is at hand for those struggling during the cost-of-living crisis.

Although the restaurant only opened in Darlington in October, the family business is well established in Barnard Castle and the team has been offering similar services on Christmas Day for the last six years.

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Zak Ahmed, creative director, said: “I didn’t imagine we’d get so many people wanting to help out. Over the course of the last week we’ve had about 100 volunteers. That includes people helping in the kitchen and drivers delivering donations and food.

“There’s been a really good atmosphere and we’re really grateful for all the local people and businesses who have donated things.”

People were offered a traditional Christmas dinner, and there were vegetarian and vegan options available too as well as hot drinks.

Cllr Sajna Ali said: “Clearly there is a need for this kind of thing in Darlington so it’s great to just open the doors and say to people ‘come in and have some food’. There’s been so many donations, one man brought in some mouthwash and a toothbrush because and although that doesn’t sound like a lot, it all adds up and it’s all a big help.”

Brothers Zak and Shuhel Ahmed and family (Image: Zak Ahmed)

Traditional Christmas dinners were on offer (Image: Aja Dodd)

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Three volunteers who had selflessly given up their Christmas Day to lend a hand said they had really enjoyed helping out.

Sam Webster said: “I’ve done volunteering on Christmas Day before and it just seems like the right thing to do. We’ve also had a really good laugh today.”

Beth Lewis said: “I had the time and the opportunity so it was a no-brainer really. We’ve given some people a nice Christmas who probably wouldn’t have otherwise so it just made sense.”

Pete Plant said: “It’s been a big success. I’m so glad so many people came and got a hot dinner.”

Andy Aracely entertained with music and LJ Barbers on Duke Street provided free haircuts for anyone who needed one.

Prontaprint in Darlington provided posters to advertise the event.

Andy Aracely providing music at Babul's (Image: Zak Ahmed)

Read next:

• Sadness as 'prominent church' in Darlington to close after 172 years of worship
• Darlington receives life-saving equipment after school staff take on HUGE challenge
• Swimmers brave the cold with a dip on North East beaches on Christmas morning

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