Christmas is a time for cheer and offering goodwill to all.

And more than 30 people got into the festive spirit as they attended the Southern Lights Christmas Dinner at the Salvation Army Lowestoft South Citadel last weekend.

Held on Saturday, the attendees aged between 20 and 70-years-old enjoyed a three course meal cooked by Salvation Army volunteers with food donated by local charities - as well as gift bags with items donated by St Marys Roman Catholic Primary School and Lowestoft Rotary Club.

Major Jenny Barwise, of Salvation Army Lowestoft South Citadel, said:

'There was a wonderful Christmas spirit in the air and we are grateful to all those who helped at this challenging time of year- especially to our volunteers who worked tirelessly in order to provide for those who needed support.'

The goodwill continues in Lowestoft on Christmas day with Access Community Trust and Hoseasons joining forces to host a Christmas meal for young and vulnerable people at Sam's Coffee House, in Bevan Street East.

The meal is to be held from 12noon with Hoseasons donating money to pay for food and a gift for each individual.

For more information email: jason.cookson@accessct.org.

While the Salvation Army on Battery Green Road is once again serving a Christmas feast for the whole community on Christmas day from 12.30pm- which will also feature carols, entertainment and gifts before ending at 3.30pm.

To book a place or for more information please call: 01502 539118.