Christmas lunch served after charity event saved

About 100 older people have enjoyed a Christmas lunch, after a charity event was saved by a good samaritan catering company.

Earlier this month, Age UK Hull and East Yorkshire was told its caterer could no longer provide hot lunches for two Christmas events due to "unexpected supply shortages".

After an appeal, Hull-based cafe Drypool Feast said it would supply the meals at cost price, and cook and deliver them.

The first event, held in Cottingham on Monday, included entertainment from a singer and gifts for those attending.

Natalie Spikings, from Age UK Hull and East Yorkshire, said: "For some people, this might be the only time they'll be out this week.

"It's an opportunity for us to check in with people and make sure they're ok and make sure they're seeing people over this time because Christmas can be a really lonely, isolating time."

Jackie Holden, 88, has been a widow for 25 years.

She said: "I've got some really good friends and I look forward to seeing them. But we're meeting other people as well."

Chris Suddaby, 57, said he had been going to Age UK events because he felt isolated after finishing treatment for cancer.

"This time of year, if you're single like me, it can be a bit lonely," Mr Suddaby said.

"So it's really nice to come out and celebrate with everybody.

"You get a nice meal, entertainment, you can have a dance with all your friends and have a good time."

Simon Himsworth, chief executive of Age UK Hull and East Yorkshire, said: "Age UK estimate that 120,000 people will be spending their Christmas alone this year.

"This is just us trying to do our bit certainly for those in our older communities to make them feel included.

"It just provides that community spirit and hub for those older communities that otherwise would be spending Christmas alone."

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