Tables set for big dinner

Hundreds will congregate tomorrow for Christmas dinner and entertainment at Masterton Town Hall, where they will enjoy a hot meal, a welcoming atmosphere and a visit by Father Christmas.

Co-ordinator Lyn Patterson said 170 guests had already contacted the Masterton Community Church to book their place at the event, which has been running for 11 years.

"We get a lot of elderly people that might have their families living away and we also get a lot of families," she said. "Families that are new to the area often attend, so it's a really good mix."

Mrs Patterson said more than 30 volunteers would cater for the guests, who can relax and enjoy live music and a visit from Santa after the meal.

She said international visitors often also joined the festivities.

"In the past we've also had people who may have been travelling through the district from overseas and they often don't want to spend Christmas Day on their own, so anybody and everybody is welcome."

Ms Patterson said the generous support and sponsorship by the community was a massive help.

"A lot of local businesses provide food for the day, which allows it to take place, and in particular Trust House, who are the main sponsors of the event."

Pastor Peter Hampson, from Masterton Community Church, said the event seemed to grow every year. "Over the last few years it has just got smoother and smoother, like a well-oiled machine," he said. "The volunteers are the ones who really make it click."

Mr Hampson said a number of families who would not otherwise be able to enjoy a big Christmas dinner would be catered for and one such family with 11 children had already booked their place.

In Carterton, the community dinner on Christmas Day is also popular and Mayor Ron Mark said the camaraderie of the event "speaks hugely of the spirit of Carterton".

This will be the 11th year for the dinner, which usually attracts about 70 people.

"It's normally good cheer, good heart and I think people enjoy the fellowship," he said.

"Some people who may be on their own attend, and then we have couples who decide to come along and share their Christmas Day with us."

Masterton Community Church is still taking bookings for Christmas Day. Call 377 1598 to reserve places.