• THE Gospel Oak pensioners’ festive lunch was a great success.

So popular was it that we had to open a second room to accommodate everyone. Pensioners tucked into a full Christmas meal. Terry Wiggett kept everyone entertained with a seemingly endless stream of raffle prizes while all of us rummaged through goody bags of gifts, Christmas hats and crackers. Everyone really enjoyed themselves.

We would like to thank Greater London Demolition, GEM Building services and those who donated hampers, gifts, the food and the fantastic prizes.

Thanks to all who helped on the day, those who worked so hard to organise, set up, decorate, cook, serve and clean up afterwards. Councillors, council officers, staff and managers at Greater London Demolition and GEM, local activists and helpers, young and old, all pitched in.

Special thanks to Sarah Robbins without whom the idea would never have been born. And thanks to all the guests who came along and made it such a memorable afternoon.

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED