MICHAELA Garnett and her parents are inviting anyone who will be on their own on Christmas Day to join them for a festive lunch.

Karen and Mike Garnett own The Red Lion pub in Station Road, Goostrey, which hosted a memorable Christmas Day lunch last year.

They invited people to come along who otherwise would have been on their own on that day, and about 20 people sat down together to enjoy an extra-special meal.

The ‘Don’t Spend Christmas Alone’ idea by the Garnetts was such a success they have decided to repeat it, and are hoping to see more people come along this year.

Michaela said: “Last year we posted on our Facebook page, and invited anyone who was going to be spending December 25 alone to come and spend it with us instead.

“Within minutes we had interest from people from the local area, and people even donated things, such as our Christmas turkey, which came from Phil Davies Butchers in Holmes Chapel.

“It was a lovely day that truly captured the spirit of Christmas, and people were so grateful.

“Instead of spending Christmas alone, these lovely people spent Christmas at the Red Lion, surrounded by warmth and laughter, and as it was such a success we want to continue our new Christmas Day tradition.

“This year we want to do the same thing again, but want to reach more people and ensure that even less people, especially the elderly, spend Christmas Day alone in their houses.

“Cheshire has a huge population of a pensionable age, so to reach as many as possible would be amazing. Most of the people who came last year have said they are coming again.

“Karen had so many compliments on the food last year, and even if you’re not alone and just fancy having an incredible three-course meal in a friendly and laid-back atmosphere feel free to join us.

“We are asking for £10 per person towards the cost of a three- course lunch, including drinks.”

The lunch will take place at 3pm, and if you would like to come along, or for more information, call 01477 532033 or visit the Red Lion’s Facebook page. Please contact the pub by December 15, if possible, if you would like to attend the lunch.