89-year-old to host Christmas Day party for elderly people – which is approaching four decades up and running

Pat Johnson took over in 1987 after someone else previously organised the event at Abington Avenue Church.

She volunteered as a driver for the attendees prior to taking over, and Pat could see how much enjoying the festivities with others meant to the group.

Though Pat wanted to launch the event in Far Cotton when she took over, the Abbey Centre in East Hunsbury became the location – and this remains the same 37 years on.

More than 50 people attend each year, and Pat says being in company and enjoying the meal and entertainment is the ideal alternative to what they may otherwise have spent the day doing.

“They all go out smiling and saying see you next year,” said Pat. “It really does make a difference. Christmas Day is a special one.

“Some haven’t got families, their families live far away, or they cannot visit as the toilet is upstairs, so they feel cut off. This is beneficial for everybody and they want to come back year after year.”

The Christmas celebration is open to anyone from NN1 to NN5, as Pat relies on generous volunteers to pick up and drop off the attendees.

They are typically picked up at 11.30am and enjoy a drink upon arrival at the venue before their Christmas dinner. The festivities end at around 5pm, and they are then dropped home.

The dedicated team sorts everything out on Christmas Eve to ensure it is ready to enjoy straight away the following day.

Pat’s son is organising the volunteer team this year, as his mother is sadly bed-bound most of the time. She continues to attend each year, as it is important to her to be there on the special day.

Anyone who is interested in volunteering as part of this Christmas Day celebration, or attending, can give Pat Johnson a call on 07424 407531.

Any money donated by attendees is either spent on the day or banked towards the next party. It is suggested that a £2 donation be made toward heating and lighting at the venue.