A cafe and church are opening their doors on Christmas day and offering free Christmas dinner to people living on their own.

In Gravesend, cafe owners Andrea Taylor and Adrian Flaherty are welcoming guests to enjoy some Christmas cheer and festive fare at the No.84 Tearoom and Eatery, in Parrock Road.

"Are you or someone you know having to spend Christmas on your own?" they posted on Facebook. "Would you like to come and share bad jokes, turkey, Christmas pudding, and pull a cracker."

Andrea explained the meal is free but the cafe does ask people to book by calling 01474 567291, and she expected them to be fully booked by this weekend.

She added: "We're opening up to people who are on their own. Not necessarily elderly - it could be anyone.

"Everything is free - all our customers have donated money, local businesses have donated money.

"Local artists have made Christmas cards and all the proceeds have gone towards it as well."

The cafe also arranges volunteers to pick guests up - some of whom are elderly and have difficulty travelling - and arranges gifts.

"We did it for the first time last year, and everyone had a lovely time," added Andre. "Everyone really enjoyed it so we decided to do it again. We are both divorced parents and we've got grown-up kids. All are kids were at their other parents and we were on our own so we thought 'why not do something; we've got a place, we've got everything you need to do it."

Elsewhere, others are also preparing to welcome those who find themselves on their own.

St Michael & All Angels Church in Wilmington, Dartford, will be hosting a free Christmas lunch at noon on Christmas Day.

The church says the lunch is "for everyone and anyone, whatever your circumstances - single, couple, families - all are welcome."

Diners can choose a full traditional or vegetarian Christmas meal, and enjoy festive drinks, tea/coffee and Christmas crackers.

To book contact the church office on 01322 288235 or email stmichaelsoffice@btinternet.com

Guests are asked to let the office know if you prefer traditonal or veg, and if you need a lift.

There is no charge and everything has been provided by members of the church and surrounding community.

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