THE kind-hearted team from one of Irvine's most popular restaurants are making an incredible gesture this Christmas.

The Niche Restaurant on Montgomerie Street typically has its doors closed on December 25 - to give its team a well deserved break to spend time with their families.

However, this year staff are doing something a little bit different to support those in need this festive period.

The harbourside business will be open this Christmas, and offering a free meal to families struggling at this time of year.

The Niche will be covering the cost itself and staff have kindly volunteered their time to serve those who will be in attendance.

A total of 30 spaces have been created for the initiative, with a full three course meal to be offered up.

A place at the sitting will be decided through a discrete application/nomination process which is available online via the Mrs Clause appeal Facebook page at facebook.com/groups/399997767935557.

A spokesperson commented: "Normally The Niche will are closed on Christmas Day to allow the team who work hard throughout the year to spend with our families

"We are proud this year to open on Christmas day and give 30 spaces offering a full three course cooked Christmas dinner covered by ourselves and some of our incredible staff have volunteered to help.

"We aim to ensure all the families are well looked after. All of this will be free of charge to families in need.

"We will always do what we can to help and if any of you know any families that are struggling this year and could benefit from this please contact the Mrs Claus Appeal page by private message to apply for a spot or nominate a family.

"Santa will have left gifts for those attending. We can’t wait to do our bit."