THOSE facing a Christmas alone are being invited to free a community Christmas day dinner in Alcester.

organised by locals Joyce Emerson and her husband, the festive event is on Christmas Day (December 25) at the Jubilee Centre, St Faith’s Road, Alcester.

It starts at 11am with a sherry (or other refreshments) before a traditional meal followed by some activities and even a special visit from Father Christmas.

This is the third year the kind-hearted couple have organised the event and they say it keeps getting bigger and better.

Joyce said "The event is for anyone who is lonely or just wants to come out and enjoy some good company, good food and have a nice time.

"It's that time of year when no one should really be alone."

The idea started after the couple, who both grew up spending the festive holidays with friends and families, asked a few people to join them and a few more turned up.

Afterwards they were told, not asked, to do it again, and again.

"We're bowled over with the amount of people that are wiling to give up their time who offer to help," Joyce added.

"We can't thank them all enough. People really appreciate something like this."

The couple are still appealing for volunteers to help out on the day.

For more information or an invitation, call 07414 851644 or email alcester-ccd@hotmail.com.

Anyone wanting to volunteer can get in touch via the above number.