A GROUP of volunteers plan to bring festive cheer to people who would normally spend Christmas Day alone.

A dinner with entertainment is being organised by volunteers at St Mark's Parish Centre, Longwood.

Transport will be provided to bring guests to the centre on Christmas Day for 11am and to return them home about 4pm.

Huddersfield Brass Ensemble who will play Christmas carols, followed by a singer, Carolyn, who will lead the party in a singsong.

The event, which is funded by the Huddersfield Pennine and Huddersfield Rotary Clubs, has been running since 1988 and is free of charge.

Dorothy Heads came up with the idea for the event while working as a volunteer counsellor at the drop-in centre at the crypt of Huddersfield Parish Church.

She said while working she discovered a real want for company, particularly at times like Christmas.

Those who would like to join the festivities - or who feel they could help out on the day - should telephone Dorothy Heads on 01484 651232.

The maximum number of places available is 70.