OLDER people living alone are being invited to a free Christmas party in Durham City.

The Abbeyfield Society and Age UK County Durham have teamed up with The Kingslodge Inn on Waddington Street to host the event for those most at risk of social isolation.

They are calling for people to get in touch and reserve a place at the special forties-themed Christmas event which starts at 12noon on Tuesday, December 3.

There will be a three-course lunch, forties music entertainment from the Fenner Sisters along with dancing, Christmas bingo and raffle.

Abbeyfield director Alastair Mulvie said: “Christmas is a time traditionally associated with happiness excitement and a time for people to get together with family and friends.

“But for many older people living in isolation it can be just another day, at best, or a time of acute loneliness, when people are reminded of lost loved ones.

“We are delighted to be joining forces with Age UK County Durham and The Kingslodge Inn to be able to make a difference to the lives of older people affected by loneliness with events like this that take place not just at Christmas, but throughout the year.”

Places are free of charge but must be booked in advance and will be prioritised to people aged 55 and over who are at risk of social isolation or loneliness.

Anyone interested in attending the Christmas party should contact Age UK County Durham on 0191-374-6577.