AFTER the success of the first Community Christmas Lunch in 2016 and then the Vintage Tea Party in the summer of this year, Burley-in-Wharfedale churches really went for it this Christmas.

With over 40 guests from across the village, the event was a massive success. The day started with guests arriving to mulled wine or festive fruit punch and live music by Paul and Irene Fowler. This was followed by a full Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. The entertainment continued with a massive thanks to Burley Nursery who brought along a group of children to sing a selection on Christmas songs; the smiles on everyone’s faces was lovely to see. People then enjoyed Christmas pudding which was followed by Christmas carols from the Burley Community Choir. The lunch finished with tea, coffee and after dinner mints. Many residents, who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to attend, were brought to and from the lunch by the local Community Transport bus.

Not only did all the churches in Burley come together to support the event, but many many local businesses and organisations did too. The Queens Head gave the use of their kitchen and there were donations of food, Christmas crackers and/or money from YorPlace Developers, Burley Festival, Sainsburys, the Co-op, Cohen’s chemist, Tesco, Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust, Burley-in-Wharfedale Parish Council and Waitrose.

One attendee said “that was a lovely way to spend time with my friends and so nice of the churches to do that for us” and another said “the community spirit in this village is the best I’ve ever experienced”.

After the generosity of all concerned, it’s almost certain that these community events will continue and go from strength to strength.