Warming beef stew, Christmas crackers and festive fun were provided by community volunteers determined that no one should face Christmas Day alone.

Volunteers from the Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST) in Clacton threw open the doors of Sam’s Hall at its headquarters in Imperial House on Sunday.

East Anglian Daily Times: Those in Clacton who would otherwise have spent Christmas Day alone were welcomed by CVST volunteers for a day of festive fun.Those in Clacton who would otherwise have spent Christmas Day alone were welcomed by CVST volunteers for a day of festive fun. (Image: Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST))

CVST has been helping charities and individuals in Tendring for 40 years. 

The Christmas Day event was spearheaded by CVST chair, Brenda Ellis. 

She said: “We just couldn’t leave the most vulnerable in our community alone on Christmas Day. It was heartwarming to see people come along and share some food and festive spirit. 

“This was a case of community kindness at its best, and I’m so proud of CVST for being able to host this wonderful event.” 

East Anglian Daily Times: Deputy chief officer Lisa Andrews with CVST volunteers. Deputy chief officer Lisa Andrews with CVST volunteers. (Image: Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST))

East Anglian Daily Times: The CVST Chair, Brenda Ellis, said that the event was community kindness at its best.The CVST Chair, Brenda Ellis, said that the event was community kindness at its best. (Image: Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST))

CVST will open Sam’s Hall again for those spending the festive period alone on Tuesday, December 27 and Thursday, December 29 from 10am to 3pm.

A Christmas Hobby Hub will take place at the hall on December 28 from 10am to 1pm.