Friends, left to right, Suzanne Reynlods, Gwen Collard and Lilian Smith enjoying the Mundesley Christmas Day lunch. PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY

Photo gallery: Festive cheer for the lonely at Mundesley Christmas lunch

Wednesday, December 26, 2012
12.58 PM

Villagers at Mundesley rallied around to provide a Christmas day treat for people who would otherwise be lonely.

Volunteers at the Mundesley Christmas Day lunch. Left to right, Mary Maclean, Rebecca Wass, Nigel Dewing, Mike Mardon, Penny Worship, Jo Berry, David Burgess and Ben Bennett. PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY

More than 40 people sat down to a meal with food donated by local businesses, and cooked and served by volunteers.

Organiser Mike Mardon, a retired chef, said the idea began two years ago and was proving very popular.

“One man said it was the first Christmas lunch he has spent with people since his wife died eight years ago,” he added.

“And another woman shed tears of happiness as she was taken home by a volunteer driver.”

Visitors also sang carols and had musical entertainment from Harry Hicks’ on the keyboard. before getting a goodie bag of gifts, mince pies, as they left the church rooms venue.

The event was only possible because people gave their time, and businesses provided food including dozens of mince pies towards the day.

Mr Mardon thanked the dozen volunteers who helped - as drivers, vegetable peelers and waiters - and enjoyed providing special occasion for those sitting down to lunch.