Ref. 28301-25CHRISTMAS can be a lonely time for elderly people living on their own.

But not if you're a member of Contact the Elderly.

Pensioners who belong to the group were treated to Christmas party, with a scrumptious festive dinner, sing-a-long and presents.

The charity arranges for 19 pensioners living on their own in Swindon and Wootton Bassett to be taken out once a month for tea.

But this month, they received an extra special treat a Christmas lunch at the Wiltshire Golf Course.

And the OAPs had an extra reason to celebrate at the weekend.

The Swindon group was under threat because of a lack of drivers to take the pensioners out.

But following an appeal in the Evening Advertiser, 11 new volunteers have come forward.

Ann Godfrey, who runs the group, said: "It's wonderful news. We rely on the goodwill of drivers.

"It's so important that the group keeps going. It means so much to the elderly people to go out to tea and means they get vital social contact."

After their festive meal, the pensioners enjoyed carols with duo Lesley Maiden and Roger Mepstead.

Handing out presents were Wootton Bassett carnival princess Sian Millward, 12, and her helpers, Lauren Groom, nine, and Chloe Hack, 10.

Sian said: "I've really enjoyed coming and seeing the old people.

"It has really brightened up their day."

The party was paid for with cash raised through fundraising activities.

Volunteer drivers also enjoyed the fun.

Rosaline Ashcroft, from Wootton Bassett, has been a driver for 28 years.

She said: "I really enjoy it, I like meeting the elderly people and it means a lot to them to be taken out."

Anyone who wants to be a driver, or who could offer the pensioners' tea, should call Ann on 01793 853236.

Tamash Lal