Another great Christmas Lunch provided for those in crisis.

Medway Sunlight Rotary Club Rotarian Grace Kelly, together with invaluable support from Chatham Salvation Army and Grace's "army" of volunteers, provided a welcome to those who are homeless or in crisis this Christmas.

Two days before Christmas Day a small band of volunteers cooked turkeys, peeled spuds, cut onions, peeled carrots, made stuffing and all the traditional trimmings - including of course a sack of brussels sprouts - ready for the big day!

On Christmas Day itself the doors of the Salvation Army Centre in Chatham were opened wide by Major Ian Payne and a hoard of volunteers poured in to set up the dining area whilst he and Grace supervised the cooking of all the treats ready for lunchtime service.

Elsewhere in the building more volunteers prepared gifts, changes for clothing for those who wanted it and even set up haridressing facilities.  Care bags and take out supper bags were also being made up ready for those who attended.

With everything set up and transport provided for those who couldnt get there under their own steam, dinner was served to over 100 visitors throughout the afternoon with 30 take awaybags provided for those who were unable to stay and 100 packed lunches and 100 care bags all accepted by those who otherwise would have had a very sombre Christmas.

What also was provided was a little hope for those who attended and an opportunity to share company in a warm environment in all senses of the word.

A massive thank you to all those who made this event possible again including Grace, Paul, Ian and the massive army of volunteers who helped before and on the day and the donors who provided so much of the food or donated towards the event - we really appreciate it!

Make a note of next year's event - Christmas Day!