FESTIVE cheer was in the air as 35 people who would otherwise have been alone on Christmas Day were treated to a four-course lunch, entertainment and great company.

Twelve volunteer drivers brought guests to the event at Whitehill Village Hall and Ted Wood marshalled the car park.

Inside the hall they found tasteful decorations with a balloon theme designed by Lucy Rudge with funding from Homes estate agents.

Chief organiser Peter Benson said: “The guests were treated to a four-course meal, including turkey and all the trimmings. Twenty volunteers prepared and served the food and drink, and everyone provided good company for each other.

“Father Christmas – 99-year-old Derrick Price – welcomed the guests, occasionally doffing his hat to cool down. Alan Waterhouse, chair of the Whitehill Village Hall trust, opened the proceedings.

“At intervals, food delivery ceased while the volunteers removed the debris and started washing up. The rest of us enjoyed entertainment, though the excited conversations implied that not much extra stimulus was needed.

“Goody bags were a new introduction this year, using donations from Waitrose and others – a pocket torch and small food items with a little bottle of something to wash it down. Guests also received cards from children at St Matthew’s School, cards from the Whitehill & Bordon Community Trust, and playing cards.”

Six months of organisation also included support from East Hampshire District Council’s Healthy New Towns team, Hogmoor Café, the Royal Voluntary Service, Tesco, Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company, Woolmer Service Station and Littlewick Wealth Management.