A community group in Stanford-le-Hope is once again planning a Christmas Day dinner for residents who would otherwise be alone over the festive period.

Friends of Hardie Park held their first community Christmas last year, providing free transport, gifts and entertainment for 32 guests, who ate, drank and socialised together with a merry band of local volunteers.

Rob Groves, chief executive of Friends of Hardie Park, said: “There are many people locally who will spend Christmas Day alone.

“There are some families for whom Christmas is a struggle. “Friends of Hardie Park want to change that.

“Having already outgrown our own building, we are teaming up with Fresh Hope Community of Victoria Road Chapel to host the meal again.

“The response last year to our appeal for donations of food, gifts and money was overwhelming and we are confident that the community will give generously once more.”

Friends of Hardy Park are now looking for people to get involved in their dinners.

If you would like to nominate a guest, donate, get involved, provide transport or help in any other way, visit www. friendsofhardiepark.co.uk and click the Christmas Day Meal tab to register and somebody will get in touch.

You can also follow the appeal on Facebook at Passionate about Hardie Park.

Or you can call Rob Groves on 07803 295374.

Friends of Hardie Park’s aim is to build community, create opportunity and transform the environment of the park.

New projects and initiatives are always in the pipeline with the purpose of engaging all age groups and abilities