A COMMUNITY lunch club in Consett has celebrated the end of its first successful year in operation with a Christmas dinner event.

The St Patrick’s Lunch Club, ran by St Patrick’s Hall Volunteer’s Organisation, marked the occasion by hosting a festive lunch for over 45 guests.

Diners were treated to a freshly-cooked two course meal, as well as games of bingo and a raffle.

Local crafting group, The Crafty Ladies, also had a stall with handmade Christmas gifts, with all proceeds going to charity.

The club was started in January this year with a £1,000 grant from housing provider Karbon Homes.

Club coordinator Mary Westgarth said: “We knew there was a need for a social group in the area, and thanks to the support from Karbon we have been able to develop a club that not only promotes healthy eating and wellbeing, but provides people with a space to interact and develop friendships.

“Since we started back in January 2019, the club has grown and grown.

“We started with 20 dinner places but due to the popularity we have more than doubled our numbers.”

The grant helped cover room hire costs, catering and refreshments, and marketing materials for the club’s first 12 months.

Jessica Wray, from Karbon Homes, said: “It’s been a really privilege working with the St Patrick’s Hall Volunteer’s Organisation to help bring this incredible lunch club to life, and all their hard work has really paid off as the club has gone from strength to strength.”