KIND-hearted staff at a York pub have presented one of their most loyal customers with a special festive gift after discovering he had no family to spend Christmas Day with.

John McEwan, 76, of Delwood, Fulford, was presented with a new outfit when he went for a pint at the Roman Bath pub in St Sampson's Square, where he has been a regular for more than five years.

When pub manager Terry Osborne heard that John, who is known as Michael because he is said to resemble former politician Michael Foot, was planning to go to the Salvation Army Christmas dinner in York, he decided to buy him gifts, including the new outfit to wear.

Mr Osborne said customers and staff were happy to dig deep in order to bring some Christmas cheer to one of their regulars.

He said: "He comes in here every day, always sitting in the same seat. He's such a sweet old guy. When we heard what he was doing for Christmas, we decided to have a collection for him and buy him some trousers and a jumper for the day."

Assistant manager Erin Haffey said: "He's just a lovely guy, he's got a sweet heart and we like to look after him. It's what Christmas is all about."

Mr McEwan said he was looking forward to his Christmas dinner. He said: "It's a great pub and great staff. They have been great to me."

Updated: 11:02 Tuesday, December 24, 2002