Don't Lose Hope in Bourne will open on Christmas Day
A counselling centre will open on Christmas Day to welcome people who would otherwise be spending the day alone.
Volunteers from Don't Lose Hope in Bourne will provide company, entertainment and a buffet lunch for their guests at the centre in North Street on Wednesday.
Counsellor and charity founder Nicola Brister will be joined by some of the centre's volunteers to welcome the guests.
She said: "A couple of our regular customers have no family so we knew they would be alone for Christmas.
"We thought about opening for them but then decided we might as well open for anyone who might find it difficult to be at home for Christmas."
Nicola will also be joined on the day by her family, including husband Dominic who is hosting a series of fundraising events to support the charity's work.
Nicola said: "Both my children also volunteer here. They realise how lucky they are to have a home and a family to be with at Christmas."
The centre will be open on Wednesday from 11am until 3pm.
Around 14 people have already signed up to attend but anyone else who is interested can get in touch on 01778 420762 or email enquiries@dontlosehope.co.uk
After Christmas the team will be looking ahead to their plans for next year.
A listening service is expected to start in February. Trained volunteers will be on hand to chat with people in the café when the qualified counsellors are unavailable.
The team will also be adding the final touches to their community garden at the Wellhead.
Dominic is appealing for donations to buy a shed for the garden to allow people to use the space in all weathers.
He is also hosting a 24-hour fundraising walk.
To find out more visit the charity's Facebook page, Don't Lose Hope.
