A NEW vegan eatery is serving up plates of Christmas cheer to the homeless and lonely in Bangor.

The Viridian cafe/restaurant, which opened recently on Bangor High Street, is offering a free, non-meat Christmas dinner to anyone who needs it.

The meal, on Christmas Day, is for anyone who is homeless or for those who find themselves alone, or lonely, over the holidays, or for families or individuals who might be unable to afford a traditional Christmas feast. It is for those from the Bangor, Anglesey and Caernarfon areas.

Viridian, which is on the site of the former Follow Your Bliss cafe, is owned by chef Ash Corbould. Part of the team organising the special day is Daniel Baker and Gabby Dubuis.

Daniel said: "I have done quite a bit of work with the homeless in the past, I just felt the time was right to do something again, especially with so many people in the area using Food Banks now. The opening of Viridian provided the perfect opportunity.

"We just want to share some Christmas cheer, a delicious vegan meal and company to anyone who would appreciate it.

"They might be homeless or vulnerable families, it might be just people on a tight budget, it may be just those who are alone and just want to be around people.

“We won't be discriminatory or ask questions, we just want to offer a free, Christmas meal for those who would enjoy it.

"I know what it is like to have Christmas alone, and even if you choose to be by yourself, it can feel lonely and weird.

"We haven't finalised the menu yet, but I am thinking about doing something like stuffed butter nut squash, or maybe nut roast, but that might all change yet!"

"Gabby said: "This has been a dream of Daniel and myself to be able to do something like this for people at Christmas, so it is exciting!"

The cafe is hoping that local taxi or volunteer drivers will get on board with the idea to help transport people free to the festivities.

Daniel added: "We need drivers to bring people, we don;t want someone say in Holyhead or Caernarfon to miss out just because of transport issues."

Viridian is also keen to hear from anyone interested in volunteering to help on the day or who could donate gifts to be put under the tree.

It especially wants to hear from musicians or entertainers who could offer their time.

Viridian will open around 10.30am until around 6pm on Christmas Day. Booking is not required, drop ins welcome.

To volunteer, provide entertainment or donate gifts please contact Viridian via Facebook or call: 01248 352 155.