VOLUNTEERS brought Christmas cheer to those who were home alone this festive season.

Dartmouth and Dist­rict Food Bank delivered Christmas presents to families in need and hampers to pensioners in and around the town.

And on Christmas Day the team made sure turkey lunch was on the menu for more than 50 people at the community cafe in the Old Market.

Food bank manager Dawn Shepherd said they had been overwhelmed by the generous donations of food and gifts from townsfolk and businesses that had made the party go with a swing.

Invitations went out to anyone in need because of loneliness, homelessness or lack of funds.

Lunch was prepared by Darren Morris and Brian Yole of the Sing­ing Kettle and Skippers and an army of hardworking helpers waited tables that been decorated with Christ­mas crackers and hats.

A surprise visit from Father Christmas – also known as Nigel Way – rounded off the celebrations.

Baptist Church minister the Rev Bruce Porter said: 'I want to express my thanks and admiration to Dawn, her helpers, volunteers and supporters for you are all doing a wonderful job and what a wonderful meal was provided for many lonely and needy people.

'Being a member of the food bank management committee, the South Hams debt centre management committee and Christians Together in Dartmouth, I am fully aware of the number of people who have needed help, including two families who this Christmas are now debt free.

'The need to help the homeless, hungry, lonely and poor is tremendous and all of you who are at the front line are to be commended for your hard work and devotion, which is an example to us all.'