HUNDREDS of York pensioners have the chance to enjoy an early Christmas dinner with the Lord Mayor.

As part of an annual tradition, York residents aged 65 and over are being invited to attend the Lord Mayor’s and Sheriff’s Christmas Cheer reception in December.

This year there will be two receptions, each for 200 people.

They will take place at the Assembly Rooms, York, on Tuesday, December 6, at 10am and 2pm.

The Lord Mayor of York, Cllr Dave Taylor and Lady Mayoress, Susan Ridley, will attend both receptions with the Sheriff of York, Jonathan Tyler and the Sheriff’s Lady, Brenda Tyler.

Schoolchildren will be entertaining the guests at both receptions, along with singers from the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir.

Organisers are currently asking local businesses for support to help finance the event, which is also part financed by the York Community Carol Concert at the York Barbican in December each year.

Cllr Taylor said: “The civic party are very much looking forward to hosting this traditional festive event for York residents.

“It is an annual civic tradition going back many years, one which we are delighted to continue.

“We are grateful for the support we receive from local businesses, schools and the choir in making this a special occasion in the run-up to the festive season.

“As part of the event we hold a raffle for the guests, and would like to appeal to any businesses who may be able to help with a raffle prize.

“Please contact the civic office with any donations on 01904 551027 or email civicenquiries@york.gov.uk”

People wishing to attend must complete the attached application form.

Those drawn at random on Monday, November 21, will be sent a ticket for one of the events.

Please specify if you have a preferred date and time.

Please note, you may not get your first choice, depending on the number of applications received.

Additional application forms can be requested via email civicenquiries@york.gov.uk or collected from the customer centre at West Offices and all York Explore libraries from October 31.

They should be returned to:

The Christmas Cheer Draw, civicenquiries@york.gov.uk

or by post to Civic Office, Guildhall, York, YO1 9QN, to arrive no later than November 21.