We all know that for many elderly folk across the UK, Christmas can be a sad and lonely time. Despite best efforts by charities and volunteer organisations, many communities rely on the goodwill of their residents to ensure that the elderly are suitably cared for during the Christmas period.
One such act of goodwill involved the community of Codicote village, Hertfordshire, home to Royston Labels’ senior account manager, Martin Hughes.
A couple new to the village wished to do something for the community and decided to host, at their own expense, a festive Christmas lunch for the elderly.
Having originally planned for 50, a total of 98 people said that they would attend. The event took place on 1st December, at the John Clements Sports & Community Centre, Codicote.
As a friend of the organisers, Martin was asked if he could look after a table. To create a small team, Martin asked Clare and Stephanie, also from Royston Labels, if they could assist.
The lunch itself was a great success, with Martin and his team being allocated a table of 8 to serve.
Soup, turkey and all the trimmings, followed by Christmas pud and mince pies was the order of the day, whilst entertainment was provided by two choirs and a local singer.
Martin said: “It was great to see so many of the local elderly community out and enjoying a hearty festive meal. They all had a good sing-along and all had a great time. It was a fantastic idea, which I believe is being repeated next year.”