HEATHER McEwan and her dedicated team of volunteers at Create a Smile Scotland (CASS) faced a dilemma.

They had nowhere to host the Christmas dinner they put on for people on their own at the festive season.

St John’s Church hall was being renovated and, try as they might, a suitable alternative could not be found.

In stepped Cumnock Juniors Social Club who, despite being the busiest time of year, offered to accommodate the dinner.

It was an offer that almost reduced Heather to tears as she was aware that going to the dinner provided by CASS is the only company a lot of people have.

She said: “A lot of places, where they normally go regularly, are closed so we decided to get something organised last year.

“The chapel hall were great, Fr Kitchen was superb, and we ended up getting lots of donations of food while Lochside House Hotel cooked and sliced the turkey.

“Everyone came together, it was amazing, I couldn’t have written a better script ­— Elvis, also known as John Reid, also came along and entertained everyone.

“Leftover food was given out and someone made Scottish tablet while we gave out raffle tickets, but everyone got a prize.”

When they were told that the chapel hall was unavailable for this year, Heather was devastated.

But that soon changed when the kind offer from Cumnock Juniors Social Club’s committee was made.

Ironically, St John’s schedule changed and their hall could be used but it was too late.

“We can cater for up to 80 people, aged 16 and older, thanks to the club.

“Anyone who is on their own on Christmas Day is welcome. There may be people who have family who live away from the area or who are working.

“It’s okay opening a parcel but what happens after that when they are on their own?

“That’s why we are asking people to get in touch with us if they know someone who will have nobody on Christmas Day.

“Everything is free thanks to the help of the community and the committee and staff of the social club,” Heather said.

Nothing will be too much trouble for the team, who intend helping make it a day to remember.

Club secretary, Jamie Campbell, said: “When Heather put the appeal on social media, we were happy to offer the facilities of the club and solve her problem.

“It’s a busy time of year for us, but we could not leave them without anywhere to go.

“Our social club has two sides to it ­— as a place for people to enjoy a drink and company, as well as for the use of the community. Back in the 80s, it was a strike centre during the miners’ dispute.

“We aren’t here just to sell drink.”

As well as the Christmas dinner, CASS deliver parcels to vulnerable people in the week leading to the big day.

Again, a group of caring volunteers help distribute the presents.

CASS want to brighten up Christmas for as many people as possible ­— call them on 07401 611600 or 07882 928343 to arrange delivery of a gift, or book a seat for the dinner, and the team will do the rest.