A FESTIVE meal for the homeless and lonely is being made even more special.

Richmondshire District Council has set up a “donation station” for anyone wishing to give a small wrapped gift for either an adult or a child.

For the fifth year running, a group of local people are planning a Christmas Meal for the homeless and lonely with a lunch at Richmond town hall at 12.30pm on December 25.

Volunteers will be working through the day – and Christmas Eve – preparing the feast thanks to a host of local sponsors and organisations.

Buses and cars will drive people into the town from outlying areas of the district - and everyone attending will receive one of the donated gifts.

Gifts can be left at the “donation station” next to the Christmas tree in Richmond Community Office and must be marked to show who it is suitable for.

Anyone who wants to take part in the festivities – or can offer any help – should contact Stuart Parsons on 01748-823456, Linda Curran on 01748-823456 or Keith Hall on 01748-850961.