On Christmas Day more than 60 people in Marlborough and the surrounding villages received a home delivered, hot, Christmas meal, together with afternoon tea, a quiz and presents – and all before 1pm. Even last minute additions were accommodated. More than 40 volunteers delivered the meals which had been prepared by Victoria Ellis, her family and friends.
The Christmas Day lunch was started 19 years ago by Nigel and Joy Kerton after hearing that a Marlborough resident had been alone with a tin of salmon and a piece of bread on Christmas Day. The tradition has been carried on by the family and now Victoria Ellis, Nigel’s granddaughter, is in charge of all the organisation. “It’s just fantastic,” commented Nigel, “that it goes on year after year.”
Victoria told Marlborough.news, “There’s so many people to thank who make this all possible. Sumblers provided all the meat, Tesco the fruit and veg, Land and New Homes Network, the drinks. Kymee Cleasby of Sue Brady Catering loaned the use of the catering premises. The White Horse Bookshop raised money by selling a recipe book and Waitrose made a donation. This event couldn’t continue every year without the assistance of very generous local people and businesses.”
Deidre Atkinson, one of the volunteer delivery drivers said, “It’s just a splendid thing to do especially in these times. You’ve just got to take your hat off to the organisers. This is what Christmas is about.”
Due to the pandemic, the Christmas Day lunch could no longer go ahead as planned in the Town Hall and was moved, as last year, to home delivery. The recipients of the meals enjoyed a socially distanced doorstep chat with the people delivering. Many had had their Christmas plans turned upside down by Omicron and were grateful to see a friendly face with a hot meal.
Receiving one of the meals, Joy Hussey said, “I had the meal last year and it was absolutely delightful so I’m sure I’ll be delighted this year. My plans have changed because son and daughter-in-law have Covid and there is a baby great grandson to worry about.”
Alan Williams, who together with his wife received a meal, told Marlborough.news, “This is just fantastic. We hope next year we’ll be back in the Town Hall. It’s been a struggle this year – let’s hope for better times.”
Mechanic / Technician – Savernake Auto Services, Marlborough
