'Joy, friendship, companionship' - the Newcastle community centre offering a hot Christmas dinner

Reporter Amy Sutton went along to meet some of the volunteers and those they are helping.

As people struggle with the cost of living crisis over the festive period, places like St Vincent's Community Centre in Newcastle have never been more vital.

It gave as many as 300 people a free Christmas dinner and good company at what can, for many, be a particularly isolating time of year.

Part of the centre's aim is to make Christmas special for all.

Chef Jan Cruickshanks said: "A lot of work goes in but a smile on everyone's face is what it's about."

Volunteers at St Vincent's normally cook for around 150 people each week but they went even further in the run-up to Christmas to make sure everyone had at least one hot meal over the festive period.

Jan explained: "It could be the only one [hot meal] they get within a week. This is their Christmas so we try to make it extra special."

They certainly managed that.

Anyone and everyone was welcome, greeted by singing school children at the entrance.

Dwayne and Mark, who now live in Gateshead but were previously homeless for nearly six months, returned to the centre to give their thanks to volunteers.

Talking about those who give up their own time, Mark said: "I know it's hard with people finding the time to volunteer... and not asking for anything back. It's a lot."

Dwayne added: "We always come back to say thank you for what they've done for us."

However, for volunteers it is well worth it. One told ITV Tyne Tees: "We see the joy on people's faces. They're talking about it for weeks afterwards.

"Life is really hard for a lot of people at the moment. People are struggling more than they have in recent years, so joy, friendship, companionship, we all know how precious those things are."

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...