A SOUTHAMPTON restaurant owner has called on other city businesses to "support each other" as they gradually reopen.

Kuti Miah, owner of Indian restaurant Kuti's Brasserie on Town Quay, has joined the Eat Out to Help Out scheme. Now, he wants others to do the same.

And a past employee of Kuti's Brasserie - now chancellor Rishi Sunak - announced the news in a bid to help restaurants make up shortfall.

It is the government-run campaign offering 50 percent off up to £10 at restaurants, and around 100 restaurants have signed up across the city.

But Kuti is now calling on people to help the community in Southampton, as the scheme got underway yesterday.

Daily Echo:

He said: "The government are doing their best and trying to help out in every way. We want to help them as they’re encouraging people to come out and enjoy the evening.

"Locals have to understand, you have to love the land, you have to think about it for everyone, not just for their pockets.

"Out of 400 restaurants, we only have 100 taking part, but why not? They’re not losing anything by doing it."

The scheme will run from Monday to Wednesday throughout August, and restaurants such as Red Dog Saloon, Leelawadee Thai Restaurant and Lakaz Maman have also signed up.

Kuti added: "They should all join and try to support each other, and help local people by encouraging locals to come out and enjoy food.

"The scheme will definitely help the business as many people that would never probably come, will come because of it. It’s very good to bring the people in."

Kuti's Brasserie is currently open from 6pm to 11pm every day, but until 11.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays.