ELDERLY people facing a lonely Christmas in Chipping Sodbury are being invited to the third annual festive Big Lunch in the town.

The committee behind an annual get together for the whole community each June are again holding a special Christmas event especially for elderly, isolated and vulnerable residents.

The free lunch and festive afternoon of good cheer will this year take place on Friday, December 2 (12-3pm) in the Masonic Lodge, Hatters Lane. It is invite only and will include a dinner of hot and cold finger food, cakes and mince pies as well as carol singing, a performance by local schoolchildren, a free raffle and a visit from Father Christmas.

Chipping Sodbury Big Lunch committee chairman Alexandra Womack said: “Our first two Christmas events have proved a real success and we have been asked to hold the lunch again this year.

“We have now held five summer Big Lunches which have been free for the whole community to attend. The Christmas event is our chance to help those people who find it hard to get out and about.

“It is a very heartwarming event to organise and be a part of and I think our volunteers enjoy helping out as much as our guests like coming.”

The committee has again linked up with local transport company Green Community Transport to offer guests free travel to the Masonic Lodge.

“This makes our lunch particularly special, as many people could not come if it were not for the community transport we offer,” added Alexandra.

“We know there are people in Chipping Sodbury, and Yate and surrounding villages, who are desperate for some company this Christmas and we also realise there are many people in our community willing and very happy to give up a few hours of their time to make a difference.

“It is lovely to bring those two groups of people together and put a smile on all their faces.”

Nominations are now open for guests. Organisers need to discuss accessibility, dietary requirements and transportation needs with anyone who wishes to come.

To nominate someone or to register for a place email alexandra.womack@hotmail.co.uk or call 07740 370586. Donations of food, prizes and grants are welcome and anyone who would like to help on the day is also asked to get in touch.

For more information search Chipping Sodbury Big Lunch on Facebook.