A special Christmas Day treat for almost 200 elderly and disadvantaged people has been saved after the plug was pulled on funding for the event.

Last year, Tendring Council gave more than £500 towards the cost of providing a meal and entertainment for those who would otherwise spend the festive period alone.

But organisers were told that there would be no grant this time around.

The event has been staged for more than 30 years at Clacton County High School with a team of volunteers collecting those involved, laying on the food and fun, and running them home afterwards.

Now Clacton Rotary Club has stepped in to save the day and pick up the bill.

Brian Henesy, chairman of Clacton Rotary, said: "We had a meeting this week and decided to make up the shortfall so the elderly and disadvantaged get their day as normal."

Mrs Ellis said she was very grateful to the club for stepping in.

"It shows the Christmas spirit is still alive and thriving," she said.

Published Monday October 14, 2002

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette