Fareham Christmas Lunch 2024

This Christmas Day marked the 15th year of a beloved tradition of the Fareham Christmas Lunch, bringing together 75 socially isolated individuals for the big day. This year saw attendees from Fareham, Locks Heath, Portchester, and Gosport.

The magic began the moment our guests were picked up by volunteer drivers (and their merry elves!) dressed in festive outfits, driving Community First minibuses. Laughter and Christmas cheer included.

The venue, St John’s Church Hall on St Michael’s Grove, was generously provided by Vicar Henry Kendall and hall secretary Geoff Collins. Warm, welcoming, and decked out for Christmas, the hall greeted guests with hot drinks and biscuits on arrival, and tables beautifully set for the festive feast.

The Mayor of Fareham, Pal Hayre, and her husband, the Mayor’s Consort, joined us, mingling with guests and delivering a warm welcome. Vicar Henry Kendall shared thoughtful reflections on the meaning of Christmas before saying Grace.

Community First Chief Exec Tim Houghton even took the wheel of one of the minibuses and shared a few words of appreciation during the day. Debbie Grace, Community Sector Engagement Manager, also gave her time, helping from start to finish.

The heart of the day, the Christmas lunch, was lovingly prepared by Chef Geoff Moore and his kitchen team. Guests enjoyed homemade soup and rolls, followed by traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, and a choice of Christmas pudding or apple crumble. The meal, served piping hot by a team of cheerful volunteers, was a highlight for many and the compliments flowed as freely as the gravy!

Behind the scenes, a remarkable 59 volunteers helped make the day possible from planning to serving and sharing the meal with guests. Some volunteers joined because they too would have been alone on Christmas Day, and found just as much joy in the shared company. Even all of the lovely photos from the day were taken by a volunteer. Thank you for these, Nur.

The day continued with a lively Christmas Quiz, carol singing, and a raffle brimming with generously donated prizes by local businesses. Before heading home, every guest received a gift bag filled with a teabag, biscuits, and beautifully wrapped presents, kindly donated via Fareham Shopping Centre, Community First supporters, all lovingly wrapped by volunteers, coordinated by Julie Stannard.

As guests were dropped home after six hours of festive fun. Guests and volunteers alike agreed: it was a wonderful success, filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine connection.