A family-run business in Aberystwyth is providing free meals for the NHS “heroes” during the coronavirus crisis.

SY23 restaurant in Aberystwyth will be, from today (Monday) onwards, offering a freshly prepared meal for any NHS worker who is short of food or has not had the chance to cook a meal for themselves or their families.

A spokesperson for SY23 said: “After watching the video of Dawn Bilbrough from York online and on the news this morning we were horrified and humbled; as a result we have been prompted to act.

“We need our NHS workers now more than ever and we would like to help them!”

Meals, that have been prepared and cooked in the restaurant, will be ready to take home to keep NHS staff “strong and healthy”.

SY23 will not be charging for this service, but they are encouraging people to give a small donation, if possible, towards food costs to support the restaurant to continue providing the service.

SY23 are asking people to show their NHS card upon collection of the food, and to order their meals on their social media platforms: @sy23restaurant on Instagram or @SY23Cwtsh on Facebook. Alternatively, people can order on the phone by calling 01970 615935.

They will be using local produce to offer a dish of the day and a vegetarian option, but ask for NHS staff to inform them of how many portions are needed and if there are any allergies when they order.

NHS staff are also asked to inform SY23 of their shift end time, and to collect their food from SY23 restaurant, 2 Pier Street, Aberystwyth, SY23 2LJ.

Chef Nathan Davies, who will be producing the food, said: “At the moment we’re fit and healthy, so we should be doing our utmost to support those who are looking after us.

“We’re a rural community and we don’t know how devastating its going to be or how we’re going to be affected, but we’ll just take it as it comes.”

A spokesperson for SY23 said: “SY23 is a small, family-run business and, although we and the rest of the hospitality industry are struggling, in these times of uncertainty what we can be surely certain of is that good, healthy and wholesome food gives strength, comfort and pleasure in times of need.

“We want to use our skills as chef and food workers to bring comfort to those around us that are on the frontline fighting this battle for us; in times like these, let’s be strong together.

“We would not be able to offer this without the support and cooperation of our loyal staff.”