Ilkley charity’s lunches bring Christmas cheer and new friendships

Monday, 22 December 2025 16:10

There was plenty of joyful festive cheer and a feeling of community connection as eighty-five older residents joined Ilkley and District Good Neighbours for their annual Christmas lunches.

Held over three separate afternoons, the charity’s lunches are a highlight of the year, offering not just a delicious meal but a valuable opportunity for companionship and making new friendships.

One guest who had recently moved to Ilkley said how the lunches have been a heartwarming introduction to her new community:

“I feel so welcomed, the charity has given me the chance to meet people, make new friends, and really feel part of Ilkley. It’s been wonderful.”

The festive gatherings clearly sparked moments of joy and also in some cases reconnection. Two guests – Joyce Whiteley and Elaine Vierod – shared memories to their delight from decades past when they discovered that they had both attended the same schools – Sunnyside Infants and Junior School, then Princess Mary Grammar School in Halifax.

Anita Dunford, trustee and organiser, said:

“Moments like these truly capture the heart of these events: genuine connection, shared laughter, and a strong sense of community.

“The annual lunches are more than just a meal. They are part of our mission to bring people together, combat loneliness, and strengthen community bonds. Seeing people leave with new friends and renewed spirits is what makes it so special.”

Chris Binns, a recently new client, spoke warmly about the impact of the charity’s Friendship Group:

“In just three weeks, Ilkley Good Neighbours Friendship Group has given me a renewed sense of purpose and a real lease of life. The variety of guest speakers is excellent, and the warmth of the welcome along with the friendships already forming has been truly uplifting. Receiving an invitation to the Christmas lunch event was a delightful and surprising festive treat. The Friendship Group genuinely lives up to its name.”

Anita added:

“The annual festive events, including an upcoming visit to the Upstagers Pantomime in January, are generously funded by donations from the Ilkley Round Table. Our charity would also like to thank its wonderful volunteers and also the volunteers from Ilkley Community Transport, whose invaluable support ensures everyone can attend safely and comfortably.”

The Christmas lunches are just one example of Ilkley Good Neighbour’s ongoing work to create social connections, combat loneliness, and bring some comfort to older residents throughout the year.

The charity – just completing its 50th anniversary year – provides practical and social support through its Shop Assist scheme, helping with shopping and everyday tasks. It also offers Befriending services, weekly Friendship Groups, and regular social events.

In addition, Good Neighbours supports people living with dementia and their carers through its fortnightly Dementia Café, alongside ongoing guidance, support and signposting to other services.

Further information and contact details can be found at https://goodneighboursilkley.ortg.uk/ or 01943 603348.

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