Operator spends thousands from his own pocket to feed locals

Brian Perkins of the Heywood in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, has personally made and delivered everything from sandwiches and salad boxes to cooked pub staples to elderly, vulnerable and homeless members of his community – as well as front-line NHS staff – during the Covid-19 outbreak.

What’s more, Perkins – who provides pub classics such as fish and chips, burgers, hot dogs and Sunday roasts free of charge – supplied more than 300 Easter eggs to local children and recently started delivering cake to anyone celebrating a birthday in his local area.

The Admiral licensee, who was the Heywood’s head chef for two years before taking it over, has been aided in his efforts by staff volunteering during their free time in addition to food donations from members of the community and his local Morrisons store. 

“The community have been fantastic, as they always are, from the minute our pub closed, asking how they can help,” Perkins explained. 

“All of my team have come back in their free time to support with the extra demand, helping to deliver the food to anyone who may not be able to collect it. We’ve even managed to surprise many residents with birthday cakes, along with a special song from Lilly, a local girl in the village.

“Residents have even been donating food, which has helped me with the huge demand. They couldn’t be more supportive, which is why I am so grateful I have the opportunity to give back to a wonderful community.”

Perkins, who has also been regularly calling elderly and isolated members of his community during the pandemic, has pledged to continue his food delivery service once lockdown ends.

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