DOZENS of volunteers are preparing to spend Christmas Day cooking dinner for people who would otherwise spend the day entirely on their own.

The meals will be provided free at the Salvation Army Hall in Tabley Street, Northwich, after a short celebratory service in the morning.

Transport will be laid on for anyone who needs it and again it is all free thanks to the volunteer army.

'There are a lot of people on their own at Christmas, especially elderly people, and they are all welcome to come along,' said Martin Jones, who runs the Northwich branch with his wife Tina.

'Many volunteers will be giving up their day to help so there will be no shortage of good food and good company.'

With so many mouths to feed and a mountain of potatoes and other vegetables to peel, preparations for the feast actually start on Christmas Eve.

Among those helping is Chris Birtwistle, a Winnington Lodge chef, who will prepare the food before dashing off to work to start cooking all over again.

The free meal and get together is just one of many acts of kindness the Salvation Army and its team of helpers will be providing over the festive season.

They will also be distributing toys to underprivileged families as well as food parcels - a service they also provide throughout the year.

There are also several Christmas services to look forward to, including a service of reflection on Christmas Eve at 11.30pm.

Anyone wanting to find out more can call Tina or Martin Jones on 01606 330572 or 01606 42118 or pop into the coffee shop and care and share shop which is open on Tuesday and Fridays from 9.30am until 1.30pm.