Gourdon landlord to spread Christmas cheer with offer of free lunch for lonely

Bar owner invites pensioners, people working shifts, emergency services staff and young singletons

As Courier Country basks in heatwave conditions, a Mearns publican is making plans for a community Christmas.

Jonny Gardner knows first-hand that December 25 is not always the happiest day of the year.

His father died on Christmas Day a few years ago but now he wants to turn the date into a happy occasion.

With six months until the big day, Mr Gardner has turned his attention to the depths of winter.

He is determined to give lonely locals a Christmas lunch so they do not have to spend the day on their own.

Mr Gardner took over the Harbour Bar in Gourdon earlier this year and wants to make his customers feel “part of the family”.

He said: “I know it’s a long way off but we’ve been thinking about Christmas.

“I know how depressing a time it can be since my father died on Christmas morning a few years back.

“I would love to offer a free Christmas lunch for anyone in the community who will be alone on Christmas.

“Pensioners, people working shifts that keep them away from their families, emergency services, young singletons – we don’t care who you are.”

Mr Gardner said he could provide a free lunch for a dozen people, but would be able to cater for more if another business wants to help with sponsorship to cover the costs.

He added: “I’ll have to wait and see how many people we get.

“If anyone is interested or knows of someone else who could be put forward, please get in touch – the more the merrier.

“Since I first suggested this I’ve now had an offer of free taxi collection for guests from Gourdon, Bervie, Johnshaven and Kinneff.”

Mr Gardner is taking bookings now for Gourdon’s lunch and he can be contacted on 01561 361337.

I know how depressing a time it can be JONNY GARDNER, BAR OWNER

Jonny Gardner’s mum and dad in Venice in 1999 – the last holiday before he died on Christmas Day.