THE Lord Mayor of York is this year extending his annual Christmas Cheer reception invitation to 800 of York’s elderly residents.

To mark the 800th anniversary of York becoming a city, Coun Keith Hyman will host four Christmas recptions in the Assembly Rooms, each for 200 people.

Yesterday Coun Hyman was at the Yorkshire Building Society branch in Market Street to collect a £500 donation towards the Christmas Cheer fund.

The Mansion House confirmed this week that York-based Benenden Healthcare Society had also donated £500.

The Lord Mayor said he was looking forward to hosting this year’s events, which take place on Monday, November 26, and Monday, December 3.

He said: “The idea to hold receptions for 800 elderly residents came from a supporter of the civic office, who has been helping us raise the extra funds needed to make them happen.

“We are delighted with the support received so far from local businesses.

“However, I would like to ask once again, if any other businesses can help, by donating up to £500 we will be in a great position to have a wonderful festive occasion.

“We will also shortly be asking local businesses to provide raffle prizes for the event, so if you can help, please contact the civic office.”

Any York resident aged 65 or over is welcome to fill in the form (printed on this page) for the chance to attend one of the events.

Completed forms should be returned to the address stated, by November 14. Lucky winners, drawn at random by the civic party on November 14, will be sent a ticket for one of the events.

Applicants are asked to specify a preferred date and time. However, the civic party does not guarantee applicants will be allocated their first choice. Each day has sessions at 10am and 2pm.

Coun Hyman said: “The receptions will feature festive entertainment from the gentlemrn of the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir, and we are currently ‘recruiting’ other musicians to provide some ‘festive cheer’ and a good old-fashioned sing-along.

“Guests will be treated to refreshments and there will also be a free raffle on the day, with prizes donated by local businesses.”

Offers of donations should be directed to Anne Platt on 01904 551011, or email civicenquiries@york.gov.uk