19 May 2024

Church opens its doors for festive cheer

By Terry Bearpark

Less fortunate residents in the Withernsea area enjoyed a slap-up Christmas dinner last Friday evening, thanks to a church and a bequest.

St Matthew’s Church, in Hull Road, receives the rent from a piece of land at Smook Hill, between Hollym Road and Holmpton Road on the outskirts of the town and forms part of a bequest instigated many years ago “to provide bread and coal to the needy of Withernsea”.

In the past the church has provided hampers and made donations at Christmas but this year members decided to provide a three-course dinner to those in need.

Thanks to church officials, members of the congregation and volunteers from the community 16 residents enjoyed a festive meal. There was also entertainment and carols from the Thorngumbald-based group the Thornberries.

The church hopes to repeat the Christmas treat again next year, but for more guests.