REGULAR deliveries of meals to nursing staff on a Covid ward without any fanfare of publicity resulted in Rafu's restaurant being named our Trader of the Week.

Sara Hale who nominated the Highworth eatery said the food provided had lifted people's spirits.

"They truly are doing this out the kindness of their heart and not publicity. Omar is carrying on Rafu’s legacy," she told the Adver.

"They really went above and beyond (took our orders and made us a custom order -lobster in some!) to make us feel special.

"A thank you we didn’t mind eating. Really did make you feel appreciated for the hours of work we’re doing. It was lovely to enjoy the meal on our breaks."

The nomination came as a surprise to owner Omar Miah. "This wasn’t done for acknowledgement or any form of publicity," he said.

"It was the least we can do for our frontline workers. It’s just a way a small way of saying thank you for all the hard work they are doing.

The restaurant in the high street was started by his dad Rafu more than 30 years ago after he stopped in Highworth during a long road trip and fell in love with the place.

Over the years he and brother Safu earned several awards for the establishment and in 2013 were included in the Cobra Good Curry Guide.

Rafu became such a big part of the community that when he died in 2016 hundreds turned out to line the route of his funeral cortege.

Omar said: "We honestly are so grateful to have even been considered for the trader of the week. We hope Dad - Bapoji - will be proud of the team right now. "

Lockdown had been tough he said. "It's a difficult situation that no-one has experienced, and we always ask the question when making decisions - what would Rafu do?

"Even with that in mind, it has been tough, especially with the hospitality industry taking a hit, but we feel our customers have been supportive and caring throughout this time.

"We really have noticed the community support - it doesn't go unnoticed - and appreciate it more than ever.

"It's been tough on us all, but every single one of the team has been fantastic, from the chefs, delivery drivers, and the front of the house. I really couldn't ask for a better team!

"He added: "It has been difficult adjusting to what is the 'new norm', but as a small family run business, we are trying our best to ensure the standard is still maintained whilst socially distancing."

If you know a local business that has gone over and above nominate them for recognition as our Trader of the Week by filling a simple online form here.