The spirit of Christmas was served up at a Fakenham pub as free meals were dished up to bring people together. 

The Crown held the event on December 18, inviting the public to enjoy a free Christmas dinner with all the trimmings including a pudding, and giving them the chance to chat with others to combat loneliness.

Fakenham & Wells Times: The Crown in Fakenham held its annual free Christmas lunch for those who are alone this festive seasonThe Crown in Fakenham held its annual free Christmas lunch for those who are alone this festive season (Image: Alie May-Hannam)

Organised by Alie May-Hannam, the landlady of The Crown, who said: “It was simply perfect. All 35 seats in the restaurant were taken, people sat next to people they didn't even know, but everyone was chatting and laughing. It had a true Christmas feel.

“The choir sang carols, which everyone joined in, the fire brigade ran food, and Sonya Cambell and her friend made up prizes for a raffle, where they made sure every single person won something.

Fakenham & Wells Times: The Crown in Fakenham held its annual free Christmas lunch for those who are alone this festive seasonThe Crown in Fakenham held its annual free Christmas lunch for those who are alone this festive season (Image: Alie May-Hannam)

“Fakenham has so much community spirit, and I'm so proud of everyone who helped make it a fabulous day.”

This was the event's second year of hosting, following its debut in 2022 - but Mrs May-Hannam has promised this will be an annual offering.

Fakenham & Wells Times: The Crown in Fakenham held its annual free Christmas lunch for those who are alone this festive seasonThe Crown in Fakenham held its annual free Christmas lunch for those who are alone this festive season (Image: Alie May-Hannam)