A KIND group of women concerned about how many people will be lonely this Christmas have organised a festive feast for up to 100 people in need of some friendly company.
Aoife Dyson had been thinking about the elderly people she sees sitting alone in cafes when she came up with the idea of bringing people together for Christmas.
“As most of us look forward to celebrating Christmas with our loved ones, there are some people in our community that are socially isolated and can go for weeks without interacting with anyone,” said Aoife, 30, of Park Road, Barnsley.
“Our festive feast is an afternoon where people across our community can come together to enjoy a delicious festive themed afternoon tea, sing-a-long to Christmas carols, dance to Yuletide hits and most importantly make new friends.
“If anyone is going to be lonely or isolated this Christmas they are welcome, they don’t have to be elderly, it’s for anyone who’s on their own.
“I know there is an event like this taking place in Sheffield, and I just thought why not do something here in Barnsley?
“The other reason of course is that I absolutely love Christmas, so any excuse for a party and I’ll be there.”
The event has been organised by Aoife and her sister Tara Howard, cousin Jade Gilroy and friend Jessica McNally.
They have set up a crowdfunding website for people to make donations, and they have already raised more than £600 towards their £1,000 target, including a significant contribution from the Barnsley FC fanzine West Stand Bogs.
“We’re doing really well so far raising the money,” said Aoife. “It’s been a great start. We could do with some more donations, but the main thing we need now is for people who actually want to attend to sign up.
“We’d like people to get in touch if they know someone who might benefit from it.”
The event will feature afternoon tea, music from choir the Phoenix Singers and entertainment from singer Richie Brooks.
It will be held on Friday December 22 from 1pm to 4pm at Holy Rood Church Hall, Barnsley. It’s free to attend but places need to be booked in advance. Email aoife_gilroy@yahoo.co.uk or see the Barnsley Festive Feast page on Facebook to book a place.
