by Terry Bearpark
A Patrington man’s wish to help the senior citizens of the village was granted last Friday as some 50 residents gathered at the Hildyard Arms for a free Christmas buffet.
Gareth Walker, who recently won a Parish Volunteer award, organised the buffet which included hot and cold food and drinks at the pub after leafleting villagers.
He was encouraged by the response and the event, which he hopes will be an annual occasion, was planned.
There were many offers of assistance and donations from individuals and businesses in the parish including Patrington Parish Council, Mulberry Bespoke Fit Out, Newton’s Fish and Chip Shop, Vowles, Mark Theaker, Patrington Bakery, Helen Murphy, David Snaith, Lynn Massey-Davis, Roy Shepherd, Jeanette and Jos Kleijnen, Celeste Lithe and the management and staff at the Hildyard.
Residents were able to enjoy a buffet, a game of bingo and entertainment by 11-year-old singer Rosie Young of Keyingham.
Gareth said: “Everyone had a great afternoon and I am sure it is the first of many. I would like to thank everyone who donated or helped out at the event – without their generosity we could not have put it on.
“Special thanks to Lisa and her staff at the Hildyard.”