HUNDREDS of people enjoyed a Christmas meal with the Lord Mayor of York as part of an annual event.

Councillor Barbara Boyce and Lady Mayoress Mrs Valerie Clark attended two receptions with the Sheriff of York, Mrs Gillian Brian, and the Sheriff’s Consort, Mrs Anne Bush, yesterday for the annual Christmas Cheer event, which was attended by about 350 over-65s.

The events are run to bring festive cheer to older people in York, and took place in the Assembly Rooms - which recently underwent a £400,000 renovation.

Carols were sung at both events by the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir, with music also provided by pupils from St Wilfred’s RC Primary School and Hempland Primary School, York.

As well as music and festive food, guests were also invited to take part in raffles, with prizes donated by local businesses from around the city.

Guests Delise and Paul Yeomans said: “We loved the children singing and joining in with the choir.

“We really enjoyed the food and company. What more could we ask for?”

Chaz and Judy Gray also attended the event and said: “After working the event for many years with the caterers it was nice to be a guest and we have enjoyed it.”

The Lord Mayor said: “The Christmas Cheer event is one of the highlights of the civic calendar and it is wonderful to enjoy the festivities with so many residents.

“I’d like to thank everyone who’s helped to make the events such a success.”