'Geordie spirit' helps Christmas Eve lunch for vulnerable in Newcastle

Michael thanked those who helped make him feel welcome on Christmas Eve

A charity has organised a free Christmas Eve lunch for people in need.

North East-based Changing Lives offered a hot meal and friendship at Cafe 16 inside Newcastle Cathedral.

Michael, who was one of those who attended the inaugural event, told the BBC he and others like him often felt "forgotten" at this time of year.

"It gives homeless people and people who are hard up a chance to come in, have a nice meal and meet other people," he said.

Those who are experiencing financial hardship, isolation and loneliness were also being encouraged to attend the free event.

Changing Lives supports people experiencing homelessness, addiction, abuse and exploitation, as well as helping people live happier and more fulfilling lives.

It said last year it saw the numbers of people rough-sleeping increase by more than 25%.

Rough-sleepers at Newcastle Cathedral, which acts as a safe space

Steven Bell, chief executive, said the charity had seen a "massive rise in demand".

"We are seeing a lot of people in real poverty, and this today is just about trying to give back by volunteering, giving something back to give some cheer in the Christmas period," he added.

The event had been prepared to cover 200 meals, and ran between 10:30 and 13:30 GMT on Sunday.

Volunteers from the charity served the food, working with the Oswin Project, which works with ex-offenders and operates a bakery inside HMP Northumberland.

The cafe, which operates at the rear of the cathedral, uses fresh bread and other baked goods made in the prison.

Councillor Veronica Dunn, the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, who attended the event, said: "It's that time of year when people want to be with other people and it's so important that they are here in a place where they know that that support is there for them.

"That's Geordie spirit."

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story you can visit BBC Action Line.