THE spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Huddersfield this year - thanks to The Salvation Army.

Volunteers in the town will open their Lord Street building on Christmas Day to elderly and lonely people.

Visitors will take part in a morning service before enjoying a full Christmas dinner, party games, a carol service and a festive tea.

Capt Ernie Huby, the head of the Huddersfield Corps, said: "It's the time of year when we are really called upon to help spread a bit of love and support.

"Our Christmas Day festivities are becoming more important and more needed.

"Our numbers are growing and this year we are actually fully booked and have more people attending than ever before.

"It's thanks to the generous support and donations from the people of Huddersfield that we can continue to offer a place for people to come."

The day will begin at 11am with a service before a full Christmas dinner with turkey at noon.

Games and activities will take place at 2pm, before revellers stop for the Queen's speech and a carol service. All guests will be taken home at 5pm.

Capt Huby's wife, Capt June Huby, said: "Those who attend often can't cook for themselves, they are lonely and would otherwise spend Christmas Day on their own.

"They enjoy the day and we work hard to make sure they have a special time. The hall is decorated from top to toe and we make the most of the celebrations.

"This year we also have 20 volunteers who will be helping us prepare and dish up the food. I would like to thank them also for their continued support."

About 80 people are expected to attend this year's festivities.

The Salvation Army works in 109 countries worldwide. It is one of the biggest providers of social services in the UK with more than 1.5m members and 88,000 employees.