A pub in Sale has launched a new initiative to help people who may be struggling to heat their homes or suffering with their mental health.

After 30 years as the landlord of the Legh Arms on Northenden Road, Paul Naylor said he felt compelled to do something to help the local community and customers who have fallen on hard times.

While the 54-year-old said he has "seen it all", he also said the cost-of-living crisis and spiraling lack of mental health support is taking its toll and is the hardest period of time he has ever known.

In a bid to do his bit, Mr Naylor launched a 'warm space' initiative at the Joseph Holt pub, which includes free bowls of freshly homemade soup dished out with bread rolls, tea and coffee, every day between 12pm and 5pm.

Mr Naylor, who runs the pub with his wife, Christine, said: “We know so many who are having such a hard time at the moment.

“It just seems there are so many things that people are having to deal with -  from struggling to heat their homes to looking for work or dealing with mental health and stress issues.

"We wanted our warm space to be a comforting haven.

"A place to come in, have a nourishing bowl of soup and enjoy some company too."

He added: "It's awful to think of people sitting at home, alone, cold and miserable - and we wanted to help.” 

The Legh Arms offers a range of soups every day, from cock-a-Leekie to mushroom and leek and potato.

So far, the warm space has been successful - and has been attracting residents of all ages.

Mr Naylor continued: “We've had young people who might be unemployed to elderly people who simply want some company.

"And of course, those who just can`t afford to put the heating on at home. 

"These are huge problems, but we hope the offer of a warming bowl of soup in our welcoming and well-heated pub will go a little way to lifting spirits and helping those in need.”