TODAY we are launching the Little Waitrose Big Christmas lunch that will offer people in the community a special Christmas lunch.

The Poundbury store, in association with the Dorset Echo, is putting on a special lunch for 80 people in Dorset who may otherwise be spending Christmas Day alone.

If you know someone who deserves to come along all you have to do is send your nomination to us by December 9.

Store manager Jeremy Board said: “This is our community initiative and we hope that lots of people in Dorchester, Weymouth and the surrounding area can get involved.

“We wanted to do something really special that means something to people at this time of year. We hope we can bring lots of people together to enjoy the Christmas spirit so if you would like to come or you know someone that would appreciate it please get in touch with the Echo.”

The meal will take place during Christmas week at the Wessex Royale Hotel in Dorchester on Sunday, December 22 and will include a traditional roast dinner complete with Christmas pudding.

The lucky guests will also receive a takeaway present.

Individuals, groups and nominations are all welcome for people who might not be having a Christmas meal this year or would otherwise be alone.

Around 1.2 million people older than 50 are socially isolated in Britain and half of Britons older than 75 are living alone.

Dorset Echo Editor Toby Granville: “We are really pleased to be part of this community campaign to bring people together at Christmas time.

“This is a great opportunity to nominate someone you know in your area who deserves to come or perhaps a next door neighbour who may otherwise eat alone this Christmas.”