PREPARATIONS are now underway to hold the annual Christmas Day lunch at County Hall by Trowbridge Fire Station for people who have no-one to dine with this season.

The event, which is now in its fifth year, was previously held at the fire station on Hilperton Road but following the success of last year’s event which was held at County Hall for the very first time, organisers are hoping to make this Christmas Day bigger and better than ever before.

Trowbridge watch manager Lucy May, one of the organisers, said: “Last year we nearly reached the 200 mark with both guests and volunteers and our mantra is that no one should be alone on Christmas Day if they don't choose to be and with that in mind we always look forward to all age ranges and backgrounds coming along.

“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 part of the festivities, Apetito will donate all the dinners on the day with Elior providing the dining facilities, cakes and catering staff.

Christmas dinner is served at noon and will be followed by carols, a raffle draw and other activities.

Dietary requirements including vegetarian and gluten free can be catered for and there will be a children area with crafts and DVD’s showing.

Mrs May added: “As we are now able to hold our event in the Atrium, it is possible to decorate and prepare the place beforehand and when we first started the event, we had to transform Trowbridge Fire Station in the morning which was a huge task. We had to try and then turn it back into a fire station at the end of the day.

“The generosity and offers of help we have received every year are just heart-warming and we are hoping to achieve the same this year.

“If people want to help, then all they have to do is get in touch and if people want to come along then just book your lunch.”

As well as attending, organisers are also welcoming donations for hampers such as boxes of biscuits and chocolates, coffee and tea bags, selection packs, toys, hats and scarf sets, socks and tights, slippers and toiletry gift sets. Donations can be handed in at either at Trowbridge Fire station or County Hall Atrium.

Anyone wishing to volunteer or book a lunch as a guest can phone Trowbridge fire station on 01225 756500 or e-mail christmaslunch@wiltsfire.gov.uk.