The Wainfleet meal took place on Wednesday, bringing local people together to enjoy a freshly prepared festive lunch along with companionship, conversation and seasonal cheer.
Guests were treated to live music from The Creaking Bones, who filled the church with festive songs — with many diners happily joining in. The day ended on a high note when children from Magdalen School Council sang alongside the band, earning warm applause from those attending.
The pupils, accompanied by headteacher Mrs Page and EYFS lead Mrs Mills, played a key role in the event and thoroughly enjoyed serving the community, helping to deliver meals and spending time with guests.
The event was made possible thanks to the support of local businesses, volunteers and suppliers. The Buckingham Emergency Food Appeal charity donated the turkeys, vegetables and festive treats, while Staples supplied sprouts and cabbages.
A dedicated team of volunteers helped prepare and serve the meal, including Alex, Lynette, Steve, the Mayor of Wainfleet and his wife Christine, and Ivy. Behind the scenes in the kitchen, Leone, Sarah, Harry and Phil worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Organisers said it was heartening to see the community pull together once again to support the event, which offers not just food, but friendship and reassurance to those who may be struggling, lonely or in need of company at this time of year.
Pastor Sue Alldread said: “It's so lovely to see people all pull together to bring this event to our community.
"Without this support, it couldn't happen.”
The Buckingham Emergency Foods Appeal provides hundreds of meals every Christmas across the region, helping to ensure no one goes without a hot, nourishing meal — particularly during the festive time.
Free community Christmas meals have been running locally for a decade, after being first introduced to the area by the Skegness Standard. What began as a small initiative has grown year on year, with volunteer teams now proudly organising and delivering the events themselves.
A second festive meal will take place separately in Skegness, where volunteers are preparing to welcome guests later this week.
5. Wainfleet Christmas Community Meal
The kitchen team at Wainfleet Christmas Community Meal. Photo: Submitted