HOMELESS people from across Basingstoke were treated to a full Christmas lunch last week thanks to a number of volunteers.

Members of Basingstoke Deane Rotary Club were in the kitchen and waiting the tables as a number of homeless people came to the Camrose Centre last Thursday for the annual event put on by the Rotary.

The staff and volunteers at the Camrose Centre also enjoyed a meal, whilst Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Councillor Diane Taylor, attended too.

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She said: “Our town is full of people who just want to help others. We are so fortunate to have armies of volunteers.

"The Camrose Centre is an example - a drop-in centre for people who are vulnerable and in need advice and a listening ear.

"Another example is the Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane who, amongst all their other charitable activities, regularly organise and cook a Christmas meal for the staff, volunteers and guests of the Camrose Centre. "It was a delicious meal again today. Thank you to Rotary.”

Meanwhile, Rotary President Alf McCarthy and Head Chef Ann Fryer said they felt "privileged" to be able to cook the Christmas lunch for the centre and their guests, adding they hoped the event, which is now in its fourth year, would become tradition and continue in future years.

The Rotary and Camrose Centre also thanked Sainsbury's for supplying the food for the lunches.