A FESTIVE feast and a warm welcome await visitors to a communal Christmas meal.

On Saturday, Food for Thought Darlington will hold the latest in a line of events designed to intercept and redistribute food that would otherwise go to waste.

The organisation's Pre-Christmas Extravaganza will see people invited to tuck into a hot buffet and enjoy mingling with other guests at Darlington's Community Fire Station.

Organisers will make the most of a range of donations by ensuring those in need can also take away household essentials and other treats.

Chair Louise Graham said: "As it's a special Christmas event, as well as bedding, warm clothes, footwear and household essentials, we'll have extra items, like Christmas food packs, gifts, toys, books and plants.

"We're putting together some recipe packs too, so that people have all the ingredients they need to make some tasty meals for the family in the run up to Christmas.

"All of this will be on a pay-as-you-feel basis, meaning there is no fixed price and people can pay in other ways, such as getting involved with the project, volunteering or donating."

The event will take place from 1pm until 4pm. All are welcome.

For information, email fftdarlo@gmail.com or visit Food for Thought Darlington on Facebook.