LONELY elderly people were given early Christmas cheer after they were invited to a festive lunch and afternoon of fun.

Among Friends Kidderminster opened its doors to members of the community who might otherwise be spending Christmas alone.

The free event, on Monday, December 15 was part of the charity Friends of the Elderly’s initiative to tackle long-term loneliness suffered by older people aged over 65.

The friends of the elderly club laid extra places at its table to provide lunches for attendees and enable them to enjoy a meal with all the trimmings, reminisce and swap Christmas memories and take part in traditional festive activities.

It also gave them an opportunity for guests to meet new people and the Among Friends Kidderminster group.

Steve Allen, Chief Executive at Friends of the Elderly, said: “Our long-term vision is a society where all older people have the opportunity to lead full and respected lives.

“In order for this to become a reality, we must make sure that older people are connected to and feel welcomed in their community.

“From opening our doors at Christmas, to encouraging people to get to know their older neighbours and look out for each other all year round, we hope to end loneliness both in Kidderminster and across the country.”