LONELINESS is difficult enough at any time of year. But at Christmas it can be particularly acute. Charities traditionally organise Christmas dinners for those who have nowhere else to go. But now a York family will be hosting a ‘Christmas Together’ event of their own.

Leonie Atherton, 31, says she’d originally meant to open up the family home. Then she realised that wouldn’t be feasible - so approached Huntington Memorial Hall instead. The hall quickly agreed - and the result will be a free, family-organised Christmas event for 100 people who would otherwise be alone.

That’s the Christmas spirit. Well done, Leonie.