AN event to help people avoid loneliness at Christmas will be held for the second year running at the Fairplace Church Hall in Okehampton.

Following the success of last year’s ‘Eat, Drink and Be Together’ event, organisers Jackie and Kirsty Reynolds will hold the event again on Christmas Day from noon.

Guests will enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch, buffet tea as well as a quiz, games and music later in the afternoon.

The organisers, who both work in Okehampton’s Co-op store, are mother and daughter duo Jackie and Kirsty Reynolds.

The pair were inspired to host the event last year after hearing that many elderly Co-op customers would be spending Christmas Day alone.

This co-incided with the Co-op joining forces with the British Red Cross last year to help tackle social isolation during the festive season.

‘No one should have to be on their own own at Christmas’, said Kirsty.

‘The event is not just for the elderly, but for absolutely anyone who might want to spend their Christmas with others.

‘I have a little girl, and it is great to be able to show her that there is much more to Christmas — it’s a time of bringing people together and helping one another.’

‘Last year was our first year running the event, and we catered for about 16 people. The majority of them will be coming again this year because they thoroughly enjoyed the day.

‘The success of last year’s event has enabled us to run it again. This year we have also managed to fund raise around £300 towards the day, so we are not so heavily relying on donations from the community.’

‘We have 25 people booked in for Christmas lunch already and we have space for about 20 more. The afternoon buffet is open to all from 3pm, and I’d encourage people of all ages to pop along for a cup of tea and join the Christmas celebrations.’

For more information contact Kirsty on 01837 54338 or via email on [email protected]