A young Bermudian chef and businessman is to give back to the community with a Christmas Eve dinner for those in need.

Michiko Campbell — a sous chef at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club and the man behind Chiko’s Smokey Rub and other seasonings — said it was his way of giving back to the community after his seasonings took off and sold more than 2500 bottles since he launched in the summer.

“On December 24, we will provide Christmas meals for those in need,” he said. “We know there are a lot of families and people that may be having a hard time and would most appreciate a hot meal on Christmas Eve.”

Mr Campbell, 24, from Pembroke, said individuals and companies had rallied round and donated cash and supplies — but that he was still prepared to accept donations so he could prepare as many meals as possible.

“We will try to accommodate as many people as we can out of the food we are going to get,” he said.

“We have 12 turkeys and 12 hams coming, so we will get whatever we can out of that.

“We’re expecting at least 300 people — if we get more than that, that’s fine with me, as long as we have more supplies.

“We would like more donations for the event — if people can give us more, we can produce more.”

Mr Campbell said that — in addition to his contribution — several people had donated cash at the Christmas by the Sea event held at Pier 6 on Saturday, while members of the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club has also chipped in.

He also thanked Portraits Afrique, a barbershop on Cox’s Hill Road, Pembroke, and new furnishings store Exclusive Homes in Hamilton, which had promised tables and table linen “so we can make it all look a bit more festive.”

The event, which runs from 5.30pm to 9.30pm, will be held in the park area at Albuoys Point, off Front Street in Hamilton on Wednesday, December 24.

“We will be putting up torches on the grass and the Corporation Christmas lights will be up on the trees and we’re bringing balloons, so it should be really festive,” Mr Campbell said.

Anyone who would like to donate to the event can contact Mr Campbell on 704 4566 or email chikosmokeyrub@hotmail.com.