Alone at Christmas festive lunch in Eastbourne is cancelled

But rotarians say they are making early plans so none of the town’s residents are left isolated or alone during the festivities.

The Rotary Club of Eastbourne’s annual Christmas lunch has become a popular festive fixture in the town, befriending and entertaining hundreds of people who would otherwise have spent the day without company.

It is often held at Our Lady of Ransom parish centre in Saffrons Road.

The club’s president Brian O’Neil said, “The Covid-19 pandemic has sadly ruled out this year’s event for the first time in more than around 30 years, but rotarians are still determined that no one should be forgotten.

“At Christmas time itself, it is now planned that rotarians will follow up with doorstep calls to more than 100 townsfolk, to deliver a card, a small gift and possibly a CD or digital link - featuring film of past events and messages of goodwill from the club, the town’s mayor and its member of parliament.

“The Covid-19 virus has taken its toll on many people who have been more restricted than ever in leaving their home and finding company. Christmas will compound that situation and we are determined our club should reach to our usual lunch-goers.