In a season where some feel the weight of isolation and financial strain, the team behind the Gaskins’ Christmas Lunches step in with warmth and generosity to make this year’s festive meal one to remember.

Delivered across Guildford and its surroundings, this project offers those who might otherwise be alone on 24 December a traditional Christmas lunch – entirely free of charge.

Located and coordinated by the team at Gaskins’, the service is simple: meals are delivered directly to homes between 12pm and 3pm on Christmas Eve, or collected at specified venues beforehand. The service is open to anyone within a 10-mile radius of Guildford, with bookings taken online via www.freechristmaslunch.com, or by calling Marta on 07855 846 957.

The idea behind this initiative is rooted in community care. Christmas, after all, is traditionally a time for home-cooked dinners and shared company, but for many, circumstances mean that doesn’t happen. Whether faced with loneliness, loss, illness or the cost-of-living squeeze, the Gaskins’ Christmas Lunches offers a meal and the comfort that someone is thinking of you. The website states simply: “Please reserve your meal to be delivered.”

What strikes many first-time users is the ease and dignity of the offer. There’s no long questionnaire or eligibility trap—just a friendly delivery of turkey (or vegetarian option) with all the festive trimmings, made possible by volunteers and local businesses pooling their time and resources. Local coverage went live in newspapers late-November, encouraging anyone who “doesn’t have the funds to cook” to book a spot.

Behind the scenes, the logistics don’t happen by magic. Donations, volunteer drivers, chefs and packing teams all come together to prepare hundreds of meals in time. What begins as a simple concept – ‘a free Christmas lunch’ – becomes a sign of hope in a community where the festive season is not always straightforward.

If you or someone you know might benefit this year, it’s worth acting sooner rather than later. Visit the website or email info@freechristmaslunch.com for more information. Even if you’re self-sufficient, you can still play a part – perhaps by helping a neighbour sign up, or by volunteering a few hours on the day. After all, Christmas is stronger together.

Food for thought: This festive meal is more than turkey and trimmings—it’s a reminder that community, compassion and connection matter, especially when the world around us isn’t always easy. If you can, be part of it. For more details or to book, visit freechristmaslunch.com or call 07855 846 957.

Let’s make this Christmas one where no plate is left empty and no seat unfilled.

Be kind, be grateful, and help us spread the Christmas spirit.

Christmas Menu 2025

A traditional Christmas feast, prepared with love and delivered to your door:

Main Course

• Traditional Roast Turkey
• Honey Glazed Ham
• Vegetarian Wellington (on request)
• Rich Gravy & Cranberry Sauce

Sides & Trimmings

• Perfect Roast Potatoes
• Pigs in Blankets
• Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
• Honey Glazed Carrots & Parsnips

Dessert

• Traditional Christmas Pudding
• Mince Pies
• Brandy Butter
• Fresh Cream

Special Touches

• Christmas Crackers
• Festive Napkins
• Christmas Card
• Delivered with Love

Dietary requirements can be catered for.