There was plenty of festive cheer in Workington on Christmas Day as around 30 guests enjoyed the town’s annual Christmas in Company event.
Founded more than 30 years ago to provide seasonal company for people who would otherwise be on their own, the event was back for its second gathering since Covid forced it to pause meeting in person.
With this year’s event taking place in the community centre at St Mary’s Westfield, many guests took the opportunity to attend the Christmas Day service in the next door church building, while others chatted and got to know each other next door.
Guests then enjoyed a visit from Workington mayor of Workington Beth Dixon, before tucking into a three-course lunch provided at cost by Maryport-based Cater 4 You.
The afternoon brought a quiz and the chance to watch the King’s Speech before guests headed home with a packed tea and some small gifts.
The event was supported by Workington Town Council, Workington Derwent Rotary Club, Gospatrick Lodge and Hills Books Ltd. Pupils of Ashfield Infant and Nursery School made Christmas cards for the guests.
Age UK arranged for Christmas dinners to be delivered to a number of long-standing guests who were too frail to attend this year.
Ruth Singleton, a member of the organising committee, said: “Christmas in Company was founded by Evelyn Adams many years ago and we are pleased to be able to carry forward her legacy by continuing to provide somewhere for people to meet up and enjoy Christmas Day together.
“After a successful first event for the organising committee in 2022, we were pleased to be able to open the doors to more guests this year and were glad to see everyone having an enjoyable time.
“We are grateful to the organisations that provided financial support, to Will Livingstone of Cater 4 You for once again supplying lovely food, and to the volunteers who gave their time to make the event happen.
“We also owe a debt of gratitude to the late Pat Evans who kept things going during Covid with meals delivered to people’s homes and who was instrumental in getting us back together in person last year.”
