A FESTIVE feast designed to combat Christmas loneliness has celebrated another cracking year.

More than 100 people attended Christmas Together, an annual event in Milford Haven, on December 25.

Volunteers and guests from around the county sat down to share a free three-course meal, and enjoy an afternoon of song and games.

This was 63-year-old Christina Johns’ third year as a guest.

“It’s the highlight of my Christmas,” said Christina, who was joined this year by new friend Dorothy Jones.

Having recently completed chemotherapy, Dorothy said she was glad to get out and socialise after weeks of being at home.

“I usually spend the day with my son, but this year I wanted to spend it with people my own age,” she said.

The 73-year-old said she was also looking forward to “shaking her booty” on the dance floor.

“I’m definitely the bad influence of the two of us,” she joked.

Seventy-eight-year-old Roland Williams has been involved with the Pill Social Centre as treasurer for more than a decade, and this year decided to experience the event for himself.

“It’s excellent, it’s more than just the food, it’s the company,” said Roland, who usually travels to Aberystwyth to see his brother.

“Christmas is a happy day but people on their own often feel left out.

“For people living on their own, it can be a very lonely time."

Bob Lovell, 44, was volunteering with his wife, who is in the Army.

“We wanted to do something different for Christmas this year,” said Bob, who is currently living near Haverfordwest.

“It’s been good fun for us, and has given the regular guests an opportunity to catch up with their ‘Christmas family’.”

Town councillor Guy Woodham, who organises the event with his husband and fellow councillor Colin Sharp, said: “I am delighted that another group of people who would otherwise have been on their own on Christmas Day have been given the opportunity to spend it in the friendly company of others.

“To be told this year by one guest that they now regard Christmas Together as their family Christmas is a huge compliment.

“I am immensely grateful to all the volunteers who help Colin and me make sure the day is such a great success.

“I am also thankful to all the individuals and organisations that have supported the event this year especially the Port of Milford Haven; South Hook LNG; Capestone Organic Poultry Ltd; Austwel Engineering; Milford Haven Slimming World; and the Mount Post Office & Shop.

“I am also able to confirm now that due to the huge continuing support that Christmas Together will be happening again in 2016.”

For full story and pictures, see this week's Milford Mercury, out on Wednesday.