Betty Williams' "Lunch for Those Lonely at Christmas" was started by the late West Hill resident Betty Williams in 2014.

An event held very close to Phyllis Baxter's heart until she died in 2018.

From Phyllis's Rumour Control Room, aka Ottery Tourist Information Office, emails, phone calls, spreading the word, designing posters and invitations, contacting volunteers, discussing menus and much more, went on for weeks and didn't stop until Phyllis, Glyn Dobson, then Mayor of Ottery St Mary, and his wife Gay, were sure no one had been forgotten and that everything would be in place to offer those attending a day to remember.

This rich history is a testament to the Ottery community’s enduring spirit and commitment to caring for its elderly residents.

After Betty Williams' death, an anonymous donor came forward in January 2017 and offered to pay for the event in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

During the years of the pandemic, lunch could not be held at a pub due to coronavirus regulations.

Still, thanks to the generous offer made by Jacqui Taylor, managing director of Otter Garden Centres, to Glyn Dobson and his wife Gay, who had organised the dinners from the beginning, and to a group of volunteers who offered to deliver a free Christmas dinner prepared by the Garden Centre's restaurant staff, everyone who submitted their names through the Ottery Help Scheme was eligible to receive a delicious hot Christmas dinner specially delivered to their home.

This year, as part of their special 60th-anniversary celebrations, Otter Garden Centre, instead of the traditional free Christmas meal delivered on Christmas Day, will return to the original Betty Williams' idea and will be hosting a free Christmas party organised explicitly for the elderly residents or couples in the Ottery Parish who may find themselves alone on Christmas Day.

It's a warm invitation to join the organisers on the 16th of December at 1.00 pm at Otter Garden Centre.

The event will begin with a warm welcome in the cosy and specially decorated Garden Centre's Conservatory, followed by a drink.

Then, it will move on to a delicious roast Christmas dinner with a vegetarian option and various puddings, accompanied by wine, coffee, and tea.

Be ready for a special treat that will fill the air with joy and cheer: a delightful carol-singing session to get everyone in the festive mood.

The event will conclude at 4pm.

The decision to return to Betty Williams' original idea was a heartfelt one.

It was made to provide those on their own, especially during the festive season, with an opportunity to meet with others in the same situation and enjoy a precious time while being treated by those who have volunteered to make their 2024 festive season unforgettable.

This return to the roots of the initiative is a nod to the past, and the organisers hope it brings a sense of connection and joy to all who attend.

If you know somebody who can benefit from this incredibly generous offer, the organisers would appreciate it if those interested contacted Glyn Dobson at 07904 175784 or the Ottery Help Scheme at 01404 813041 as soon as possible.

Glyn Dobson would like to extend his heartfelt thanks to Jacqui for her generous offer, her restaurant staff, and the Help Scheme for their collaboration in organising this Christmas party.

He is also immensely grateful to the volunteers who have dedicated their time and effort to make this event possible since 2014.

Their contribution is invaluable and greatly appreciated.

As we celebrate this festive season and the New Year, may it bring you as much happiness and reward as the care you have shared over the years.

Thank you all for helping to keep this wonderful tradition alive, spreading joy, and ensuring that no one in our community feels forgotten.

Together, you have truly brightened spirits.