A charity which provides a free Boxing Day lunch to people who would otherwise be on their own will celebrate three decades this year.

The Alternative Christmas Experience (ACE) was founded in 1988 by Deal resident Bernard Cook and continues today under the leadership of Terry and Georgina Bishop.

Each year, up to 80 guests are collected from their homes and transported to the event which has mostly been held at The Astor Theatre, but on occasions in St George's Hall.

It includes a three-course meal with drinks and entertainment. There's also tea and mince pies as well as a goody bag to take home.

Secretary and co-chairman Pam Wass said: "It is a real team effort with organisers giving up their time through the year and an army of helpers and drivers giving up all or part of Boxing Day to help.

"Every year the Mayor of Deal has attended, and this is hugely appreciated by the guests.

"There have always been entertainers who have also donated their time for free and ACE owes them a big debt of gratitude.

"So now we have planned for the 2018 event, with a special emphasis on marking the 30th anniversary of this splendid initiative.

"Once again the ACE committee and all the volunteers are preparing for a wonderful Boxing Day, and looking forward to welcoming guests to The Astor for good food, entertainment and, most importantly, great company!"

The popular dining experience - which is already fully booked this year - was set up single-handedly by Mr Cook. He would raise money from individuals and businesses, along with support from the Royal Marines who had a base in the town at the time.

Before his death around the late noughties, he ensured he had enough helpers to keep it running, including Mr and Mrs Bishop who joined the team in 1992.

On occasions they and other volunteers have taken on the huge task of preparing and cooking the meal themselves although it is now done by committee member Dot Killip.

Rooks the Butchers has always provided the beef; cooked, sliced and at a discount price. Other small businesses, individuals and groups such as the Lions, Rotary, and the Freemasons give monetary contributions and raffle prizes.

Local restaurants and bars also chip in to cook or part-cook the food.

This year's event has been made possible thanks to a generous £1,000 from Deal Icebreakers.