About 50 pensioners from Long Preston will be able to tuck into a New Year meal – thanks to the fundraising efforts of half a dozen people.

The over 70s committee raises money throughout the year to fund two special meals for the community’s oldest residents.

One takes place in the summer and the other in the Christmas/New Year period, with the next one due to take place at the Boar’s Head next month.

And, last week, the committee staged a coffee and mince pie event at the village hall which, with a raffle, raised more than £200.

“The over 70s committee celebrated its 50th anniversary in the summer,” said treasurer Janet Benzie. “We hold a few fundraising events each year and people are really generous. We are carrying on a tradition.”