More than 50 homeless or vulnerable people visited The Hoy restaurant in Margate yesterday for a free Christmas lunch.

They came from various organisations across Thanet and also those living on the streets were invited in.

The idea came after David Goulding, who co-owns the restaurant, started a Remember December campaign on Facebook.

David said: “I started the campaign and then I spoke to Thanet Community Services who sourced people most needing a Christmas dinner.

“The idea was to give something back to some of the locals who are less fortunate than us.

“For some of the people it was the first time ever they had something actually given to them and the first time in days and days that they had had a hot meal.

“Local businesses and some of my customers donated money and food such as turkeys to help fund the event. We even had people giving up their time to come and help serve the food and clear it away.

“The entertainer gave his services and time for free too and we had a barrel of beer donated.

“It was a real community effort with everyone pulling together.”

More than 120 people have been served a free Christmas dinner so far and every attendee at The Hoy also received a box of chocolates handed out by Father Christmas.

Mr Goulding added: “I will look at doing it through the winter if local people can help me and put their hands in their pockets, contacting me or Bev to make a small donation.”

He explained that someone looking to sponsor a whole event has been in contact with him already and a second meal could happen by early next week.

If anybody is interested in helping they can contact Dave or Bev on 01843 232184.