A TEAM team of volunteers cooked up a free festive treat for residents last week.
People aged 60 and older from Evenwood and Ramshaw enjoyed a Christmas lunch and social afternoon organised by kind-
hearted caterer Kimberley Clark.
Ms Clark, who runs Kim’s Kitchen, was hailed a “local hero” for her efforts during lockdowns when she cooked up and delivered more than 10,000 meals to the elderly and vulnerable.
Last year due to restrictions Ms Clark was unable to host her annual Christmas meal at Evenwood’s Workingmen’s Club but was delighted to be back doing what she enjoys best last Wednesday.
She said: “There is not as many as usual here, but it’s understandable because a lot of people still don’t have the confidence to come out.
“I’ve catered for 100 and for those who haven’t come, we will be delivering the meal to their home so no one will be missing out.”
Donations from Sainsbury’s in Darlington and Tesco at Bishop Auckland, along with a cash injection from local businessman Steve Dunn, ensured she was able to host the event.
She added: “Everyone has been so supportive and this year it was sponsored by Graham’s Logs, who have helped make it possible.
“It’s nice to get them back and it’s lovely to see everyone. A lot of people here today I was doing doorstep deliveries to during the pandemic and it’s great to see them enjoying themselves.”
As well as the festive feast, guests got to enjoy entertainment from singer Jenna Highfield with dancing before a few rounds of bingo.
Ms Clark and her sister, Claire Burt, were presented with flowers by club stewardess Alison Stoker for their hard work. A raffle was run with money raised being split between the club’s annual children’s Christmas party and the Children’s Heart Unit Fund at the Freeman’s Hospital, in Newcastle.
