Company at Christmas: Charity’s 39th year of serving up a festive feast and friendship for those facing Christmas Day alone

A Bishop’s Stortford charity that has provided company for people alone at Christmas for 39 years served up another treat on Christmas Day.

Company at Christmas, which is run by Churches Together Bishop’s Stortford, hosted its annual December 25 gathering at the Methodist Church in South Street, catering for 130 guests who did not want to be alone.

As well as providing a delicious Christmas dinner and goodie bags, volunteers collected those unable to make their own way to the church and delivered the food and gifts to those who preferred to stay at home.

Mayor Cllr Richard Townsend joined guests for the day along with Bishop’s Stortford Baptist Church minister the Rev John Walford.

A charity spokeswoman said: “The day started with a team of drivers picking up the guests and bringing them to the Oasis Lounge at the Methodist Church or delivering lunch to those who stayed at home.

“The guests were treated to a three-course meal followed by entertainment and afternoon tea. They were then transported home with a lovely goodie bag to enjoy over the rest of the festive period.”

The event is funded through donations. Grants from Bishop’s Stortford and Stansted Round Table and Stansted Airport also ensured this year’s festivities were a success.

Associated Taxis helped with the transportation of guests to and from the venue.