A FREE, four course Christmas Day meal proved a hit in Otley.

The event, organised by the All Good Things Community Food Project, was held at the Cranberry Cafe, on Kirkgate, on Monday, December 25.

It attracted people from the town and surrounding areas, including Yeadon and Holt Park, who enjoyed the meal - with extra food to take home - along with a gift and games.

All Good Things' founder and Project Manager Nikki Sloper said: "It went really well, everybody enjoyed the meal with one of the guests already wanting to sign up for next year!

"We were also able to deliver food to some people who were unable to make it out.

"Donations were gratefully received from many local businesses along with Otley All Saints Parish Church, the Salvation Army, Otley Food Bank, friends, family and the wider community.

"A huge thanks to them, our team of volunteers and to all those who supported the event - and, of course, to Tom at Cranberry Cafe for providing the venue."

One of the guests, Kevin, said it had made a real difference to his Christmas.

He said: "I had a lovely time and it was great, because otherwise I would have been by myself.

"I've met some lovely people and really enjoyed myself.

"It really did make my Christmas Day because it can be a really lonely time.

"It made me feel great and it was the first time in two years that I've spent Christmas with other people."

The group's objective is to bring people together to enjoy food as a way of combating isolation and loneliness.

Its upcoming plans include a series of Sunday Sessions, aimed at the over 65s, which will run from February to June and include a three course meal, a health and well-being session, music and an arts-based activity.

Details of the dates and venue are being finalised.

For anyone wishing to register for those sessions, meanwhile, or who would like to get involved by volunteering All Good Things will be holding an open-day showcase on Sunday, January 28.

The event takes from 2pm to 4pm with the venue due to be announced shortly. It is open to all and will include drinks and snacks.

More details can also be found by visiting the group's Facebook page or Twitter feed, or by contacting Nikki on 07921 564 450, e-mail hello@weareallgoodthings.com .