Organisers behind a bumper event dishing our cheer amidst the cost-of-living crisis have been surprised at significantly lower numbers than expected.
Norwich Open Christmas opened its doors on Sunday, December 25 for its annual festive dinner for homeless and lonely people.
For the past 30 years, tens of thousands of guests have been welcomed at the festivities, which is not only free, but tickets do not have to be booked in advance.
The organisation's chairman, Bill Ashton, has been involved with Norwich Open Christmas for almost 15 years.
Earlier in the week, he had expected to cater for around 700 but believed the final number to be closer to 400.
The 77-year-old said: "Although the number of people attending was much lower than we thought it might be, the event went remarkably well.
"I think a lot of people may have called off the day due to illness and concerns which remain about mixing with others following the pandemic and flu.
"It did mean that everyone who attended really got the full works."
More than 300 volunteers took part to help bring this year’s event to life.
St Andrew's Hall in the city centre saw an army of volunteers give up part of their Christmas Day to ensure those desperately in need of festive cheer had a proper meal and enjoyed some company with others.
During the last few years, around 550 people attended on the day. The last two years saw the event being hosted outside due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mr Ashton added: "Everything gets recycled that can be and nothing goes to waste.
"Anything that we can recycle and reuse, we will pass on to other charities who can make use of everything including clothes and non-perishable items."
Registered volunteers for Norwich Open Christmas 2022 are still being accepted for clearing day, which takes place at St Andrew's Hall on Thursday, December 29 from 9am to midday. Visit norwichopenchristmas.org.uk for more details.
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