A CHIP shop has been dishing out its Belgian-style frites to the homeless.

BeFries, in West Street, Brighton, has been doing its bit for the rough sleeping community as temperatures have plummeted over recent weeks.

Staff have been taking out hot chips and offering some warm words to those forced to spend the nights on the streets.

They also provide hot water to local charities which distribute tea and other hot drinks to those in need.

Dashal Beevers, who founded the business with his brother Chan, said: “Being an independent business in the heart of the city which is open seven days a week, we have seen first hand the growing number of people who are forced to sleep rough on the city’s streets.

“We’ve got to know many of those who regularly spend time on West Street. With overnight temperatures now regularly dropping below freezing, the least we can do is offer some hot food and a five minute chat.

“Just that small thing you can tell makes all the difference.”

According to Government figures released this week, Brighton and Hove has the second highest number of rough sleepers in the country.

A snapshot survey conducted by the Government in autumn 2016 recorded 144 people bedding down on the city’s streets, an increase of 85 per cent on 2015.

A large number of these rough sleepers are in the West Street area where BeFries is based.

Before opening in August, Dashal and Chan discussed ways in which they could support local charities.

During test fry runs, the pair gave portions of cooked potatoes to the Clock Tower Sanctuary, which supports young homeless people.

Once trading, Dashal wanted to establish a regular link so that some of the unsold produce was given to local groups for them to distribute among vulnerable people in the city.

But after receiving no positive responses, he took matters into his own hands.

Councillor Emma Daniel praised their efforts.

She said: “It was fantastic to meet Dash and Chan who are full of ideas not only to improve their business but to make things better for the city as a whole.

“I think the perception is that businesses, especially small businesses, are not interested in social responsibility.

“But BeFries has shown that is not true.”