Bristol restaurant Bell's Diner is one of 14 taking part in this year's StreetSmart scheme to help the homeless.

The restaurant in York Road, Montpelier, is well-established, having opened in 1976, and for about the past decade it has been run by chef-proprietor Chris Wicks.

He said it had been involved with StreetSmart for a number of years and despite many people struggling with tough financial times this Christmas, diners were still being as generous as they could.

He said: "It's Christmas, which is a time for giving, and certainly in the time we've been involved with the campaign we have had people who have been pretty generous with their donations.

"I'm not so sure everyone can be as generous this year but people are still out spending money and making a donation to charity does make them feel good."

StreetSmart was started 10 years ago, with more towns and cities signing up over the years.

Bristol joined the campaign in 2001 and every year has contributed about £10,000. Nationally StreetSmart has so far raised more than £3.2 million.

It involves a voluntary £1 being added to restaurant bills during November and December, with money raised in Bristol then spent in the city and not used up in red tape.

Organisations such as Caring@Christmas, Bristol Soup Run Trust, the Church Housing Trust and One 25 are among those who have benefited from the kindness of those enjoying a meal out.

This year 15 Bristol restaurants are involved in StreetSmart, all leaving cards explaining the scheme on tables, together with a message from actor, author, TV presenter and long-time supporter of the campaign Stephen Fry.

The Post is once again supporting the fundraising effort, along with many actors, writers, politicians and celebrity chefs.

Restaurants taking part in the scheme: Bell's Diner, Montpelier; Bistro La Barrique, Gloucester Road, Bishopston; Budokan, in Colston Street and Whiteladies Road; Cafe Maitreya, Easton; Fishers Fish and Seafood Restaurant, Clifton; Hotel du Vin, Narrow Lewins Mead; The Living Room, Harbourside; Moreish, Redland. Muset, Clifton; One 30, Cheltenham Road; Primrose Cafe, Clifton; Quba Ice, Southville; Riverstation, The Grove; Second floor restaurant, Harvey Nichols, Cabot Circus.