TWENTY-eight homeless people in Basildon were treated to a hot meal and gifted a care package today thanks to the generosity of residents and an 'amazing gesture' from staff and the owners of a local pub.

Inspired by the #KindHeartedCampaign, Melissa Bass embarked on a fundraising project with a Valentine's Day double aim.

Her plan was to get donations in to enable her to buy meals to distribute to homeless people - that way as well as feeding the needy, the event supported a local business.

The appeal for funding proved successful and Melissa approached the Bell Inn at Horndon on the Hill to see if they would be happy to prepare the meals.

Not only did they do just that - but they waived the bill meaning the money raised can now be used to help even more people.

Melissa said: "It's just been incredible. Local people have supported this out of the goodness of their hearts and the generosity of the Bell has meant that we were able to supply 28 people with a hot meal."

Melissa teamed up with the Salvation Army and Basildon homeless worker Sky Butcher to identify those in need and today, helped by her friend Holly Shepherd the meals were delivered.

She said: "A massive shout out to the Bell at Horndon - particularly Carol Anne Vereker, Stephen Treadwell and Nick Losset - and to all those who donated. And to Dan Furlong who came up with the idea of the #KindHeartedCampaign and has inspired us all. And to Sky and to Holly for their invaluable help.

"It's been so heartwarming spreading so much love on Valentine's Day."

You can still donate to help keep the love flowing via this link.

You can follow the #KindHeartedCampaign on Instagram.