All are welcome to a free Christmas Day dinner at Pembroke Dock, supported by community volunteers and donations from local companies.

Last year the Christmas Day event was visited by Pembrokeshire County Council and the local police as well as delivering some meals to the local ambulance station.

Following last year’s success, organisers Jodie O’Connor and Tom Griffiths have again been offered the use of the Harlequins Rugby Club free of charge for the event - which is much appreciated.

For 2023, they are hoping to reach even more people who may be lonely or struggling at this time of year, by providing a tasty meal, some music and games as well as some company for Christmas Day.

Organisers Anna, Tom and Jodie at last year’s free Christmas Day lunch
Organisers Anna, Tom and Jodie at last year’s free Christmas Day lunch (Pembroke Dock at Christmas)

We interviewed Jodie earlier this week. (See the video at the top of this story) Jodie also added:

“We rely solely on donations and volunteers and I’m grateful for all of the support offered so far in making it a success once again.

“We still have plenty of seats left, where people can come alone, with a friend or even join a table with others and our volunteers to take part in the festivities.

“People can find us on Facebook on “Pembroke Dock at Christmas” or email [email protected] to book their seat so we know how many people we will be serving.”

Adults and children are welcome. There will be a small tombola and DJ Lionel Nutting will once again be providing music. There will be items to take away such as gloves, hygiene items, toiletries for the attendees should they want or need them. People from all areas are welcome to attend - you don’t have to be hard-up financially to join in. And there is plenty of parking at the venue.  

Also involved this year is Jodie’s 11-year-old son Connor, who is joining his mum and Tom in making the final arrangements to make the dinner a success.

Any spare sealed food after the event will be donated to local charity PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action to Combat Hardship) and any spare funds will be donated to the fundraiser for Natasha Louise Cox, a local woman fighting a battle against cancer.

Helpers, 2022
Helpers, 2022 (Pembroke Dock at Christmas)