STAFF at a restaurant in Rogerstone have said they have been "overwhelmed" by the response from the local community after announcing they would introduce a new delivery service in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

Mamma Lina’s Italian restaurant owners made a decision to mothball their Cardiff restaurant next week to save costs ahead of a turbulent and uncertain time for independent businesses.

Working with their marketing company, the owners have been able to launch a takeaway service and are providing free delivery (for orders over £20) to customers living in the Rogerstone area, starting this evening.

After announcing their decision on social media, Gianluca Pandolfi and Massimo Intriglia said they couldn't believe the response they received.

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In less than 12 hours their post was liked and shared hundreds of times and viewed by over 26,000 people.

“The response has been off the scale,” said Mr Pandolfi.

“We already enjoy a very good relationship with our local communities but had no idea they would respond as they have done.

"We have even had offers of help to deliver our meals free of charge from some of the residents.

"When we moved to Wales many many years ago, we immediately felt at home here and then things like this happen and everyone pulls together to help out during a crisis and we are left speechless and so thankful to our wonderful friends and customers.”