Christmas is a time for celebrating. Giving gifts, singing songs and sharing food with our loved ones.

But as we wake up on Christmas morning with only worries of getting socks or burning the potatoes, others are putting on their uniforms and getting ready for a day of helping others.

Servicemen and women up and down the county will spend their Christmas looking after the rest of us, caring for us and keeping us safe.

Here are just a few of these helpful heroes taking care of all of us during the festive period:

Nicolette Jones, 47, helps people with learning difficulties live independently. Mrs. Jones said: “My job is so rewarding, I will be handing out medication and helping cook Christmas dinners this year – I feel very lucky to spend my days helping people.”

Roger Phillips, chairman of the Fire Authority said: “Over 100 servicemen and women will maintain their usual 24-hour cover over Christmas to ensure people are kept safe.

"All staff who provide this cover have the respect and thanks of the Fire Authority. We hope that people will take extra care to enjoy safe and peaceful Christmas celebrations.”

Helen Mason-Bedford, 36, is an NHS night sitter, which allows people to stay at home rather than being in hospital. She said: “I don’t mind working over Christmas. For some of our patients it will be their last so knowing they can be at home where they are happy is worth giving up a little of our time for.”

Of course, paramedics will be on duty on Christmas Day.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The Trust has faced an extremely busy 12 months but 2019 has once again proved to be a successful one for the service. It wouldn’t be possible without the incredible hard work and dedication of our staff and volunteers, who go above any beyond every day to provide the very best possible care to their patients. They selflessly give up their Christmases and time with their family to care for others, something which we as a service will never underestimate, and we thank them.”

Worcester News reporter Jessica Charles will be on duty on December 25, covering any breaking news in the county and updating our website.

The Worcester News staff wish to thank everyone who will be out serving our community this Christmas.