THE Furniture Scheme in South Shropshire, is gearing up for Christmas including helping to make sure that people who are alone and do not want to be can have some company.

Last year one of the staff was alone at Christmas and came across other people on their own, too.

She wanted to do something about this.

So, this year they are hosting a Community Christmas lunch on Christmas Day at the CasCA centre in Craven Arms.

Volunteers and staff will cook and host the event for people who would otherwise be alone, allowing them to get together as a community and share the Christmas spirit. There will also be a visit from Santa, and games and music.

“I am very proud of those involved in the event who are giving their time voluntarily,” said Jean Jarvis, chief executive officer of the Furniture Scheme.

“We have had lots of help from local traders who’ve added their support to this event. It’s now fully booked, which we are thrilled about, so there will be 40 not-so-lonely people this year in Craven Arms.”

For those looking for gifts in the run-up to Christmas, free children’s books are available at the Furniture Scheme’s Re-use centre and Rockspring Community Centre, both in Ludlow, as well as at CasCA, perfect to fill those stockings for the big day.

The Re-use centre also has affordable furniture for those who might need a new sofa or some extra dining chairs for the relatives.