Volunteers wanted for free Christmas meal event

The free meal will be held at Bridgnorth Rugby club on Christmas Day

A group that feeds the lonely and isolated free Christmas lunches is urging volunteers to sign up.

Together at Christmas, based in Bridgnorth, Shropshire, has been meeting every Christmas Day for 11 years, providing food and company for those who would otherwise spend the day alone.

Despite it being November, organisers are looking to get a group of helpers together as preparations begin.

"It is a massive team effort," said lead organiser Mark Triggs.

"An entertainer would be lovely," he said.

"Anyone who's willing to host tables, or serve tables, work in the kitchens, plate up food, do transport of deliveries and ferry people to the rugby club."

Due to this year's new location - Bridgnorth Rugby Club - more people are needed to offer lifts.

"We will have more of a transport requirement this year, with it being out of town."

Volunteers are needed for a range of roles, including hosting tables

The food comes from a professional supplier, which will be cooked by a professional chef on the day.

"It is really all hands on deck, with a team of sous chefs who are preparing vegetables and doing gravy and stuffing and things like that," he said.

It is not just hot food on offer - people from around the town chip in to give a little extra to attendees.

"All of the schools, and indeed the scouts, make Christmas cards, which go in goody bags for each of the guests that we have coming along," said Mr Triggs.

"Everyone gets involved, from businesses and charities, the town council and so on.

"There are lots of jobs to be done," he added.

Volunteers are meeting at the rugby club on Wednesday to begin planning the event.

Mr Triggs encouraged anyone interested to go along, or contact the group.