VOLUNTEERS from some of York’s biggest businesses have been spreading Christmas cheer at care homes across the city.

Workers have helped organise Christmas parties at a number of elderly people’s homes with carols, bingo and time to chat with residents over mince pies during their lunch time.

The festive activities, organised by employee-volunteering charity York Cares, have been taking place at Woolnough House, Marjorie Waite Court, Barstow House, Grove House and Haxby Hall, Windsor House and WIllow House.

Among the businesses involved are the University of York, Langleys, Northern Rail, Interchange and Consort Hotels (Best Western), East Coast Mainline and Waitrose. York Cares has also encouraged businesses to collect toiletries, food and toys and donate them to community projects helping people in crisis including York Food Bank, Arc Light, Carecent, Foundation, Howe Hill, Peasholme Centre, Ordnance Lane, The Salvation Army, the Scarcroft Project and the Women’s Housing Project.

Holly Hennell, of York Cares, said: “We’ve had a fantastic response. We always have so much fun with residents at the elderly people’s homes, and the food parcels are really appreciated by those in need. It’s a great opportunity for local businesses and their employees to give something back and spread Christmas cheer.”

For details of York Cares visit yorkcares.co.uk