A FISH and chip shop in Weymouth has received a generous donation in support of its scheme offering hot food and drink to homeless people.

The Suspended Coffee scheme, which has been run by Fish 'n' Fritz for several years, allows customers to donate a hot drink or some food to a member of the homeless community when they pay for their order. The idea is thought to have originated from Naples: when someone had good some luck, they would typically buy two coffees, called a 'sospese', but only drink one, gifting the other to someone else.

The donation of £150 to Paul Hay, owner of Fish 'n' Fritz, came from T. Quality, the national fish and chip shop supplier and fast food wholesaler.

Helen Bartle, regional manager for T. Quality, said: "When Paul told me about his Suspended Coffee scheme, I was struck by its simplicity and effectiveness. When I told my boss Mike Crees, he instantly got out the company cheque book and made this donation. Well done Paul and all your team for doing something amazing for those people less fortunate than ourselves.”

Paul added: “With the winter months fast approaching, donations like this one from T. Quality are very important. The long range forecasts are saying we are in for a hard winter this year. This donation, when added to our suspended fund, allows us to support the local homeless people of Weymouth with a hot drink or hot food when they need it.”

Fish 'n' Fritz, located on Market Street, Weymouth, first opened in 1997. In the 22 years since its opening, the eatery has won countless awards and become a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike.

Since the Suspended Coffee scheme begun, customers of Fish 'n' Fritz have generously suspended many coffees and snacks, ready and waiting for those in need.