YOUNGSTERS (and some teachers) were the latest recipients of local businessman Abdul (Abbs) Bashir's largess this afternoon (Wednesday, 1 July).

During the recent heatwave Abbs, owner of popular Grays restaurant Desi Asia has been visiting local schools with icecreamman Pat to give local kids a treat.

Abbs Bashir has been handing out free treats to local youngsters at their schools.

It's the latest in a line of charitable actions by Mr Bashir, whose restaurant on Orsett Road has hosted a mulitude of charitable and fundraising events and also been the scene of food and other supplies handouts to local families and individuals in need.

He told Nub News: "This year, because of the hot weather, I decided to do something a little different. For more than 15 years, through my restaurant, Desi, I've been proud to give back to the Thurrock community by raising money for charities, organising free curry events, sponsoring local sports teams, and supporting community initiatives. During this heatwave, it simply felt like the right time to spread a little happiness in a different way.

"I know many of the teachers across the borough, and there's nothing better than seeing the children's faces light up when an ice cream van arrives in the school playground. Those smiles make every mile and every scoop worthwhile.

"I'm funding this entirely myself, and the response has been overwhelming. The number of schools that have contacted me has been incredible, and I only wish I could visit every single one. So far, we've treated more than 7,000 pupils and teachers, and the number continues to grow.

"Grays has always been great to me and I want to do as much as I can for the people here. Hopefully, this is just the beginning. My dream is to see something like this become a nationwide initiative, where every child can enjoy a free ice cream during a heatwave.

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Kids have been queuing for the Desi ice cream van at school lunchtimes.

"Long before the pandemic, Desi built its reputation not only on serving exquisite food & Curryoke, live entertainments but also on serving the community. Over the years, we've supported local charities, sponsored grassroots sports teams, backed community events, and helped countless local causes. I've always believed that if a business is fortunate enough to succeed, it should also give something back to the community that supports it.

"For me, this has never been about publicity. Anyone who looks back through my history or social media will see years of community projects, fundraising, and charitable work. Giving back has always been part of who I am. If these small acts of kindness can brighten someone's day, bring people together, or inspire others to do something positive for their own community, then every effort has been worthwhile."