SIXTY older York residents - who would otherwise have spent Christmas Day alone - enjoyed good company, food, music and gifts instead today.

Xmas Presence, led by York musician Big Ian Donaghy and Charlotte Diaz working closely with Age UK in York, took place at the Edge building at Wentworth College at the University of York.

Jingle Brass – an ad hoc group brass band of players from all generations and bands - welcomed guests as they came through the doors, and 'musical maestro' Kieran White joined the gathering for a Christmas singalong.

Guests enjoyed Christmas dinner and a light tea as well as special hampers filled with homemade gifts, with university chef Andrew Wood masterminding the catering.