A festive initiative set up by South Woodham Ferrers residents aims to provide those spending Christmas alone with "a lovely, homecooked meal".

Set up in 2020, One More Plate encourages residents to donate a plate of Christmas food to their neighbours, who may find themselves alone at Christmas, or cannot cook for a variety of reasons.

The meal is delivered to their door on Christmas Day, between 1pm and 3pm. Organisers will endeavour to cater for vegetarian or other specific dietary requirements.

There is no charge for this "one off act of kindness".

For those who do not live alone, organisers say they can offer up to two plates if required.

As families across the Maldon District, Essex, and throughout the country face 'surging' costs this Christmas, charities and organisations are urging people to help. Maldon's Salvation Army branch is calling on the community to donate new toys for its Christmas appeal, supporting families in need over the festive season.

For more information on how to donate a meal to One More Plate, click here.

Alternatively, to request a plate to be delivered to your home this Christmas, click here.

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