South Wales Echo

Church open on Christmas Day for those who would be on their own

- JESSICA WALFORD Reporter jessica.walford@walesonlin­e.co.uk

A CHURCH in Aberdare is set to open its doors on Christmas Day once again so no-one has to be on their own during the festivitie­s.

St Fagan’s Church in Trecynon is now in its fourth year of hosting a whole day of activities including eating Christmas dinner to watching the Queen’s Speech – with the day free and open to everyone.

Guests will also get a present, donated by local businesses, as well as being able to take part in a sing-song and enjoy a visit from Santa.

Last year, about 70 guests showed up for the festivitie­s. Due to the capacity of the hall it can only host the same number again.

So far, about 20 people have registered interest in volunteeri­ng for part of the day, but Father Richard Green thinks they need three times as many.

Father Green said: “It will be the same as last year, but it’s our fourth year. I have always got a great response from the community.

“The people who want to come and volunteer have contacted us quite early. I got one at the end of October. It’s really encouragin­g that people are keen to come.

“We could do with maybe even 50 or 60 volunteers to look after all the different aspects of the day.”

For Father Green, it’s the community spirit he’s seen that makes the event a success for him.

“I think people just see it as a really good opportunit­y to get involved in the local community and help out,” he said.

“Christmas is such a special time for

 ??  ?? Last year’s Christmas Day event at St Fagan’s Church in Trecynon
Last year’s Christmas Day event at St Fagan’s Church in Trecynon
 ??  ?? Father Christmas dropped in last year
Father Christmas dropped in last year

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