CHRISTMAS is a wonderful time of the year, but not everyone looks forward to the festive season.

There are some people, whether homeless, elderly or vulnerable, who may be  spending Christmas alone in Southampton.

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But, to help spread some festive cheer to all, here are just two places in the city that are offering free Christmas meals to those in need.

Make Lunch Southampton - St Mary's Church, Sholing

Monday, December 20

Referrals from schools in Sholing/the East of Southampton can attend this Christmas extravaganza at St Mary's Church with their families. 

The church's Make Lunch scheme is available during the school holidays for children and young adults who usually have free school meals. 

Susan Brakewell, who helps to run Make Lunch, said: "Every Christmas (apart from last year) we do a Christmas dinner for the children and families who are likely to be without.

"We run it through the church, and this year we have got the Flying Seagull Theatre Company performing their Christmas show.

"After that we will have Christmas lunch then hopefully each child will go away with a Christmas present.

"Over 450 children in Sholing primary schools are entitled to free school meals. That number is going to go up again and will rocket after Christmas."

Southampton Sunday Lunch Project

Sunday, December 19

This charity is not only offering one, but TWO free Christmas dinners to those in need today.

The charity will be serving a turkey Christmas dinner with all the trimmings from 12 - 1pm at St Denys church centre (which has disabled access), and by the Oven Door Bakery in Woolston, through a red door and downstairs.

The Woolston venue has no disabled access.

There will also be live music in both venues. 

Enjoy a tasty roast turkey dinner with pigs in blankets, brussel sprouts, carrots, parsnips and potatoes with gravy, followed by Christmas pudding, ice cream or cream with mince pies.

Attendees will also receive a 'goody bag' with treats. 

Children under the age of 18 can receive a takeaway only from 12.30 pm, after the sit-down meals have been served. 

Do you know of any other charities, organisations or groups in Southampton offering free Christmas meals to those in need?