A FESTIVE lunch at Whitehill Village Hall was attended by more than 40 people who would otherwise have been alone on Christmas Day.

Organised by village hall trustee and Royal Voluntary Service Luncheon volunteer Peter Benson, with help from Father Christmas and 25 elves and helpers, guests enjoyed a three course Christmas dinner, carol singing and a game of Bingo.

Father Christmas thanked all those who played a part in the day, enabling it to be a free event.

Peter said the event went “extremely well and surpassed my expectations”.

He added: “This event would not have been the success it was if not for the commitment, energy and stamina of the volunteers, who were outstanding.”

Village hall chairman Alan Waterhouse said: “The outstanding success of this year’s lunch and Whitehill’s goodwill demonstrates how members of a pro-active community can build a healthy and happy place to live and I was proud to be a part of this.”

*More photos in this week’s Bordon Herald.