A FAMILY who runs a Branthwaite pub are spreading lots of festive cheer by inviting people on their own at Christmas to join them for a free meal.

Steve and Annette Brew run The Wild Duck at Branthwaite with their daughters, Sophie Brew and Amber Blanchfield.

"Following a tradition we started four years ago, we want to give back to our community as best we can," said Steve.

"It’s been a rocky past year and it’s been tough on a lot of us, losing loved ones being the worst part.

"So this year, we want to invite a few individuals who haven’t got the luxury of enjoying a Christmas dinner with loved ones around.

"We will collect, feed, water and make sure they get home safely, there will even be a little gift, all on us."

Steve lived in Germany as a child as his dad was in the air force. "Lads that could not get home would come and have Christmas day with us. They appreciated it," said Steve.

"When I was in the Army we were always having people round. People should not be on their own."

He has asked people to nominate others privately, through the pub's Facebook page.

"We will make sure it’s a Christmas Day to remember. If people know someone who is going to be alone this Christmas, please private message us and we will pick out a few people in the coming weeks," he said.