Merrier Christmas for lonely elderly

However, for pensioners with no family or carers there is an alternative - Edwinstowe Tenants & Residents’ Association senior citizens’ Christmas dinner.

Volunteers from the group put on a free three-course meal at Edwinstowe Village Hall on Christmas Day between 12-3pm for elderly residents, singles or couples, who are unable to prepare their own and do not have friends or family to rely on.

Not only that, the volunteers will provide free transport to the dinner then back home again afterwards.

Sue Howells said: “We are very lucky because we have family but a lot of these people do not.

“Many of them see nobody from one day to the next all-year long and are probably sat in a bungalow somewhere with no heating.

“For those who have no-on to come here on Christmas Day is absolutely wonderful.”

As well as the dinner there is also a raffle on the day along with plenty of tea and mince pies.

Said Sue: “We just want people to come and eat our food so if you are on your own this year just pick up the phone and we will come and fetch you.”

If you would like to make a contribution of food or book a place for the day phone Sue on 07800 803728. The closing date is 18th December.