YMCA offers company, support and a free breakfast

The YMCA has been offering free breakfasts over the festive period to help tackle loneliness

A community centre has been cooking up free breakfasts to help combat loneliness and poverty over the festive period.

The YMCA in Clevedon, North Somerset, has supported a range of people over Christmas - from those who are homeless to people needing a bit of friendship and a meal.

Centre manager Juley Howard said: "It's not even about people in need, in my mind, it's about people who want to be together and contribute."

Staff are hoping to expand support for people in the town in the new year.

Centre manager Juley Howard said people had come all the way from Bristol to take part

Ms Howard said: "We've had people come from Bristol [because] we've been open over the holidays.

"We know this is a time of year… when it is a bit quiet.

"There's not much going on and that's the time when you really need something going on."

Staff and volunteers will also be giving out warm clothes at the centre to anyone who needs them.

Sandra, who moved to the town recently, said: "I don't know anyone, I don't see anyone and I'm very isolated so it's helped coming here, just meeting new people and chatting with people."

Alistair used to be homeless

Alistair used to be homeless but said he was "really lucky" to have a roof over his head now.

He said bills could be a struggle so the YMCA free breakfast was "very beneficial" both financially and in helping him feel less lonely.

Nigel lives on his own and said: "Circumstance aren't very easy as far as cooking facilities… [so the YMCA] helps me out a little bit."

Ms Howard said the service was set to carry on into the new year.