PEOPLE who do not have the luxury of having a Christmas Day to look forward to are being invited to County Hall for a festive lunch.

The special Christmas Day lunch, which began back in 2011 at Trowbridge Fire Station, is being organised by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, and volunteers from Wiltshire Council, Company for Christmas, Apetito and Elior will be at the Trowbridge venue too.

Control Crew Manager Kate Dewey said: "The lunch is free and open to anyone who doesn’t want to be on their own on Christmas Day, and we welcome all ages and backgrounds.

"None of it would be possible without the amazingly generous donations that we get from the local community, or the support of our fantastic volunteers – all of whom are prepared to give up their own Christmas Day to ensure that others can celebrate as well.

"The generosity we receive, with offers of help and donations every year, is heart-warming and overwhelming. Any volunteers who would like to come and help out are always welcome, we aim for a family atmosphere where guests and volunteers all sit together to share lunch.

"As Apetito kindly donate all the dinners and Elior provide the dining facilities, catering staff and cakes, the main job for volunteers is to make our guests feel welcome and provide company."

The doors will be open from 10am, all guests will need to be there at 11.30am, ready for lunch at midday. After lunch there will be a raffle and singing and goody bags will be given out when they leave at 3pm.

Prior to the event, volunteers are also needed to help with leaflet drops, putting up posters, and collecting gift donations.

On December 23, the team will be setting up the atrium at and extra help between 9.30am and midday is encouraged.

To volunteer or to book a lunch as a guest call 07934 172734 or 07734 483881.