Show of generosity to Norwich Big Issue seller

A Big Issue seller has given his heartfelt thanks for the generosity Norwich has shown him after an influx of gifts over the festive season.

Prior to Christmas the Evening News spoke to Simon Gravell about his experience of being homeless, and selling the Big Issue, in the city.

His story of survival by selling the Big Issue magazine was intertwined with his love of Norwich, and the generosity received from its people and two weeks on the city's residents have not failed in their efforts of kindness.

In the days following the publication of the article, Mr Gravell experienced not only rocketing sales, but an even greater outpour of generosity and kindness.

A set of cutlery, a contribution to his Christmas dinner, and even a mug with a mince pie and a sausage roll inside, were amongst the items gifted to him on his pitch outside Topshop in the city centre.

Simon sent his mother a copy of the story. He said: 'She hadn't realised how bad it had got for me, and told me to come home.'

But his choice to remain in the city, and be self sufficient, has certainly paid off.

He said: 'I still can't believe how one piece of news can generate so much generosity. I really can't thank the people of Norwich enough.'