A COUPLE from Cockfield are hoping to serve up some festive cheer to those in need this Christmas.
Kirsty Lowther, who runs Joey’s Waffle House in St Helen Auckland with her wife Stephanie, has decided to open up the doors of their business on December 25.
With the help of volunteers, the couple will be offering free turkey and stuffing sandwiches and hot drinks from the shop on Christmas Day.
Mrs Lowther said: “It is for those people who are in need such as those with financial difficulties, veterans, homeless people and the elderly.”
The dessert shop, which opened on Abraham Enterprise Park in May, will be open from 9am to noon.
Sandwiches and hot drinks will be offered free of charge.
Mrs Lowther said: “I was at my mam’s and we were chatting and I just said, ‘why don’t we do it?’ I don’t think people realise how difficult some people find Christmas time.
“There is this big stigma that it is all about all these big presents that have to be bought but not everyone can afford to do that.
“We put the idea out as a feeler and it went crazy. We are overwhelmed by how much support we have had.”
The couple, who have a two-year-old son called Joey, are also hoping to reach out to those who are unable to travel to the shop.
Mrs Lowther said: “We have got a lot of people who are interested in helping so we are looking to deliver some sandwiches as well. I think we will have plenty of people to help deliver.
“I just hope we have enough people who come forward to let us know they will need a delivery.”
Deliveries will be made to all surrounding areas in Bishop Auckland as well as Cockfield, Evenwood and West Auckland.
Mrs Lowther said: “Joey is at that age now where he doesn’t really understand Christmas and we don’t have Christmas dinner until later on in the day anyway.
“I want everyone to feel included. Everyone should be able to eat all the time but especially on Christmas day.
“It is not just for people who are financially struck. It is for lonely people too so they can come down to have a chat.”
The couple thanked everyone who has come forward to offer donations so far.
For information or to book a Christmas day delivery contact Mrs Lowther on 07708 753255 or email [email protected].
