EIGHTEEN elderly residents and volunteers from the Royal Voluntary Service in Hereford joined licensees Lisa Beckett and Duane Morris and staff at The Volunteer Inn for a three course Christmas lunch with all the trimmings.

The meal at the Harold Street pub was part of Heineken’s Brewing Good Cheer Campaign, which encourages pubs across the UK to bring those in socially isolated situations together by hosting free lunches.

With loneliness affecting over nine million people in the UK, Heineken believes pubs can play an important part in alleviating the problem by providing a welcoming place where people can connect with their neighbours and wider communities.

Around 100 pensioners in Herefordshire use the services of the Royal Voluntary Service Hereford, which helps older people maintain their independence and remain engaged with their local community.

More than 30 volunteers take the over 65s to shops, hairdressers, hospital appointments and out for social occasions.

They also hold monthly get-togethers featuring music, crafts and other activities as well offering the opportunity to reminisce with one another over a cup of tea.

Lorna Haseldine of the RVS said: “Elderly people can feel isolated when the community around them is gone and families move off.

“So, it’s wonderful for them to get out, have a change of scene from their own four walls and meet others in a similar situation. Today is special – it’s a great opportunity to relax and have fun, to share a festive meal in a welcoming pub at the heart of the community.

“But social isolation isn’t confined to Christmas time, so if you know a family member, a friend, neighbour or relative that you think could benefit from some support or companionship, call us or encourage them to do so. There’s no pressure. We’ll provide the transport and the different events. They just need to take that first step.”

Lisa Beckett from the Volunteer Inn said: “We’re a community local, one of three back street pubs in Hereford where people can come together. We have a skittles alley, which we offer to charities to use free of charge, but this is our first Brewing Good Cheer lunch.

“These lunches are great for pubs to support as they encourage single elderly people to venture out, meet others and make new friends.

“Pubs are friendly, social spaces and we have quite a few customers who come into the Volunteer Inn on their own. Some have become close friends and will be joining us for Christmas dinner at our house.”

David Paterson, corporate affairs director for Heineken said: “There really is no place like the Great British pub – it’s the place where relationships start, friendships are cemented, and memories made. We believe pubs are at the heart of communities and we’re delighted to be working once again with so many pub landlords who want to make a positive difference not just at Christmas, but all year round. We hope Brewing Good Cheer continues to raise awareness of the issue of social isolation and inspires more people and publicans like Lisa and Duane to get involved and help combat it.”