LINTHWAITE pensioners were treated to a slap-up Christmas dinner and party courtesy of the owner and regulars at the Royal Oak pub.

The Manchester Road hostelry laid on a free four-course meal with prizes and chocolates for 43 elderly regulars and residents of Lynn Wood residential home.

Singer Rick Desire entertained the crowd with some old favourites, including Bing Crosby songs. Everything was paid for by the pub’s social club. This was the fourth year that the pub has treated the old folk.

Owner Jeanne Brennan said: “I have been up cooking since 2am, but I love it. Everybody has chipped in and helped and it has been absolutely brilliant.

“I have had so many cuddles and so many people saying thank you. Our guests have really appreciated it and we will certainly be doing it next year.”