FAMILIES are being invited to enjoy a free dinnertime at Trowbridge Fire Station on Christmas Day.

This is the second time the station, in Hilperton Road, will have held the event and the organisers are hoping to build on the success of last year, when 50 people enjoy a festive lunch together.

The meal will be served between noon and 1pm, with after-dinner entertainment also planned.

Trowbridge watch manager Lucy May, one of the organisers, said: “We want to make this a really nice family event, with a mix of people of all ages who need that little bit of extra support on Christmas Day.

“We want to emphasise this is a free meal, but it’s about more than that.

“It is about people not being alone and not going without at Christmas time. We’ve got a pianist providing the entertainment, while there will also be carol singing and we’ll also put a DVD on the big screen for children.” Last year the event attracted older members of the community, but organisers anticipate that more younger families may come forward this year, due to the difficult economic climate.

The Christmas dinners will be provided by food firm Apetito, withthe choice of a traditional turkey dinner or a vegetarian option.

The organisers are still keen for any other donations to the event, from businesses or members of the public.

Mrs May said: “We hold a raffle, so I’ll be sending out letters to supermarkets, asking for any donations they can provide.

“I’m sure there will be quite a few children present, so we’d love to have prizes that we could give them all, as it would be nice for them to go away with something.

“The event is open to anyone who wants to come and have a nice family Christmas at the station. We can also help with transport.”

To book a place, or to make a donation, call the station on 01225 756500 or email lucy.may@wiltsfire.gov.uk.