OVER 50 guests and volunteers from the local area met together at the Church Barn in Bishop's Castle on Christmas Day to take part in the 5th Festive Friends Christmas lunch.

It began in 2012, as an initiative within the Clun Valley Quaker Meeting (which still forms the core of the organising team) with around two dozen people and has grown steadily to the point where the barn is just about full to capacity.

Guests were greeted with mince pies and a drink before being entertained by the festive accordion playing of Harriet Bartlett and Trevor Morris.

A full Christmas lunch of turkey (or nut roast) was served – with all the usual trimmings.

Amongst the volunteers – for the first time - was former Wolves goalkeeper Matt Murray who played host to one of the tables. Christmas pudding or trifle (or both) followed, before Christmas cake with tea or coffee rounded off the day.

Master of ceremonies, John Birt, kept the festive spirit going and Bob Burns led the now-traditional singing of the 12 Days of Christmas.

As guests left, Father Christmas gave each one a goodie bag and, amongst the many words of thanks there were also many requests for it all to take place again next Christmas.

So many people join in to make this happen – far too many to list – but the generosity of the people of Bishop's Castle and the surrounding area never ceases to amaze organisers.

Generous donations of money were received from the Marches Choir, Bishop's Castle Patchwork Group, Plox Green crafts group, and the charity bingo group at the Kings Head as well as from individuals.

A magnificent turkey crown, bacon and sausage meat from Andrew Pugh Butchers.

Two Christmas cakes from the children, parents and staff at Crowgate nursery.

Milk, butter and cream from the Co-Op, Bishops Castle.

Sherry from the Three Tuns.

Sweets and biscuits form The New Deli, Bishops Castle

Mince pies from Stonehouse, Nichola Burton and Sainsburys.

Trifles from Nichola Burton.

Catering equipment from Wendy Oakley Catering.

Christmas tree from Margaret Whittle, Edgton Farm.

Free use of the Church Barn from St Johns Church.