A POPULAR Indian restaurant in Barnard Castle has pulled through for the community once again after ensuring that members of the public can use the curry house as a ‘central hub’ amid power shortages caused by Storm Arwen.
Since Friday, parts of County Durham, North Yorkshire and the North East have been without power after rain, snow and high winds battered the region – leaving a scene of devastation in its wake.
With many houses lacking electricity, a show of strength in community spirit has been spotted across towns, cities and villages impacted by the storm.
Read more: Storm Arwen: North East and Yorkshire wakes up to chaos
This has been no different in Barnard Castle, with businesses coming to the rescue of those most in need.
Babul’s in the town has stepped up to become a gathering point for anyone that wants to charge their phone, use the internet or stay cosy and warm in the background of a crisis.
Taking the initiative over the weekend, the restaurant and takeaway have started offering free hot drinks and meals for those that are vulnerable, as well as opening 10am until 10pm to ensure everyone is looked after.
As soon as Storm Arwen took hold of the region, a representative of Babul’s, Zak Ahmed, has called the need to help “a no brainer” and will continue to help out in Barnard Castle “for as long as it’s needed”.
He said: “As soon as the storm started, we noticed an increase in the number of takeaways that we were selling on Saturday. We thought this was a ‘one off’, but when the same happened on Sunday, we knew something was happening and looked to help.
“While we’re supposed to close on Monday and Tuesday – we are now open and welcoming people as and when they need us. If they need a phone charger, internet, or anything else, we’re here.
“We’re urging people to come in, get cosy and warm – we’ve seen over 40 people so far come and use us as a central hub.”
Among the backdrop of felled trees, destroyed property and dropped powerlines, Mr Ahmed says that he’s found an “unbeatable community spirit,” which has seen other businesses follow Babul’s lead, including the TCR Hub, Chocolate Fayre and The Old Well Inn.
Mr Ahmed added: “We’re looking to give people back things we take for granted. These days, if you lose phone battery, banking, business reports, our whole social network is lost in an instant.
Read more: Storm Arwen is gone, but snow and ice warning remains
“The look on people’s faces when they see relief makes it all worthwhile. We’ve separated a little space from our restaurant dedicated to bringing people who don’t have power.
“From the pandemic to Storm Arwen, we’ve seen some tough times, but what you can’t question is the community spirit of Barnard Castle.
“If anyone needs help, don’t feel embarrassed, please come down to Babul’s.”
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