AGAIN on Christmas Day, Carol and Pearl at the Victoria Centre in Lydney, organised a truly festive feast.

The dining room was overflowing with guests, volunteers and goodwill. It proved yet again a very special day for local people, who might be frail or alone, to celebrate with friends, old and new.

Such a day did not happen by chance of course. The support of a loyal team of sponsors and volunteers was vital.

Raine Thurston of Ferrino provided the funds, Mr and Mrs Baker of Close Turf Farm and Bill and Sue Osborne, the turkeys, Jean Blake the flowers. Emma Kemsley, with her team, Miriam, Phoebe and Lizzie, again turned out a stunning meal, Shelley Miller baked her usual wonderful fruit cake, John and Sue Williams gave wine, Dr Sharma took photos, Tom Atkinson and family produced rousing musical entertainment and our tireless team of volunteers Sarah, Oma, Joyce and Lynne, served and cleared away.

Meanwhile, Charlie drove the Dial-a-Ride van and local friends and family, Hester, Mike, Linda, Helen, Richard and Derek, their cars to make sure that everyone arrived safely.

It was a memorable day!

The centre is indeed overwhelmed by the generosity of all who continue to make it possible to provide meals on a regular basis throughout the year for older residents.

May we, therefore, thank for their support in 2016: Lydney Town Council, Lydney Dial-a-Ride, Club Ginger Gym, Griffiths Marshall, 3 Hill St, MidCounties Funeral Care, MidCounties Store, Okell Francis Law, Royal Forest of Dean Rotary Club, Forest of Dean Lions Club, Tesco, Vassar Smith Lodge, Chepstow Round Table.

Messrs B Berryman, W Osborne, B Parker, D Jones, J Remnant, D Sedgewick and R Miller.

Mesdames J Brooks, L Beswick, D Elsmore, D Hutchinson and M Thurston and to the many people of this town who are our friends and supporters.

Sincere thanks from the trustees: – Pam Bendall, Pearl Biddle, Hilary Chalk, Sheila James, Sally James, John King and Susan Thompson.