More than 40 elderly, lonely and infirmed Rutlanders have enjoyed a Christmas meal and carol singing entertainment.

Hosted by Lands' End outlet at its Oakham restaurant, and provided by the team at Voluntary Action Rutland (VAR), the Christmas festivities event on Friday was designed to celebrate the season with residents who otherwise might not have the opportunity to get together.

Tom Walters, CEO of VAR, said: "We're here to both celebrate Christmas and to actually recognise the fact that there's a lot of people in the county who maybe don't have as much fun at Christmas as they should.

"What we really want to do it to reach out to them and spread a bit of joy, and for this lunch bring people together who might otherwise live alone, who might not live next door to people, or might not get in contact with people as often as they should, and give them a chance to have a really good old-fashioned Christmas meal together and enjoy sharing time with people.

"The food looks phenomenal with hardly a morsel left – I can't remember the last time I saw Yorkshire puddings that big! All the catering team at Lands' End and our staff from VAR, organised by the wonderful Lorraine Watkinson, who have served them today, have been absolutely brilliant."

Lands' End welcomed Rutlanders for a Christmas meal, supported by VAR. Image credit: LDRS.

The 43 elderly, lonely or infirmed residents of Rutland were all collected with minibuses from Voluntary Action Rutland, and taken to and from the Lands' End restaurant in Oakham.

"We are welcoming these Rutland residents who can come here, have a wonderful Christmas dinner, and enjoy being sung to by the children of Year 6 at English Martyrs," explained Kirsty Charters, from the Lands' End HR department.

"It's all been done with the team at Voluntary Action Rutland so that hopefully they can have a nice festive time.

"Land's End restaurant are always happy to help, and while we are here every day, being able to do something like this where it really makes a difference, that's what puts a smile on our faces."

Entertainment was provided by the children from Year 6 at English Martyrs Catholic Primary School Oakham, with carol singing, dancing and individual children playing Christmas carols, including 10-year old alto saxophonist, Deandre and his seven-year old sister, Desiree Dsouza on flute playing 'Joy to the World'.

"The children have been the real stars of the day," added Mr Walters. "The school choir from English Martyrs were just fantastic."

Lands' End factory on Lands' End Way has a restaurant/canteen and outlet store. Image credit: LDRS.