Christmas came early for hundreds of people at Albuoy’s Point, as sous chef Michiko Campbell gave those in need a free hearty meal.

This is the second year that the 26-year-old, who works at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club (RBYC), has given back to the community during the festive period.

Talking with The Royal Gazette yesterday evening at the event, Mr Campbell said: “The reaction has been crazy. It’s a good feeling to see people enjoying themselves and being appreciative.

“The comments have been really heart-warming. I’m happy with the turnout so far, hopefully we can get a lot more.”

Proceeds from the event, raised via a donation box, will go to a yet-to-be-decided local charity.

Preparing to feed a target of 600 people (up from 452 last year) proved a predictably Herculean task.

For three days before the event, Mr Campbell would show up three hours early to work, where he would prep food such as turkey, ham, and peas and rice with the help of his “dream team” kitchen staff.

And then, after finishing his shift mid-afternoon, he would spend another four to five hours continuing to get everything ready — totalling up to 15 hours a day of flat-out work.

“I’m a little tired, but it’s all for a good purpose,” said Mr Campbell, who lives in Smith’s with his wife Sherelle, and will unveil the sixth flavour of his Chiko’s Smokey Rub seasoning in late January.

“I see a lot of people giving back and feel a heart-warming vibe. It’s not just during Christmas though — there are a lot of people who are willing to help out during the year. Sometimes it just goes unnoticed.”