Organisers of the Swannington Christmas dinner for people who are on their own over the festive period are planning to do it again next year.

Last month, we reported on the village couple, former hoteliers Mike Brown, and his wife Hilary, who began the gesture five years ago but were forced to cancel it last year due to the Covid pandemic.

Swannington couple are putting on Christmas dinner for those on their own during festive season.

They revived the dinner this Christmas at Swannington Village Hall and it was a success once more.

Mike told Coalville Nub News that the day went to plan.

He said: "It went brilliantly.

"A young man called Mat turned up to play guitar and sing a few songs, apparently it was his first live gig and he was very good.

"One of our regular guests, Karl, also played a few songs on his guitar.

"We had a raffle and a few games of bingo, with all prizes were donated and we collected enough funds to make the day special for every one.

"Each guest left with a goody bag. A big thank you to everyone who donated.

"In the end we had 28 sit down for dinner with a further five who we took meals and goody bags too but couldn't make it through illness or Covid.

"After the big clean up, all the helpers sat and had their dinner - a further 11 meals.

"So we fed 44 people on the day.

"Everyone enjoyed the day and hopefully we will be able to do it again next year."