Pubs in Dorset will open their doors to tackle loneliness in the county this Christmas.

The initiative by Hall & Woodhouse will welcome more than 300 people to to its estate of pubs across the country on December 25.

In Dorset, The Smuggler’s Inn at Osmington Millls and The Olive Branch, Wimborne, and several other pubs will have tables reserved for six people on Christmas Day

The Community Christmas Table initiative promises to host Christmas dinner for more than 300 people in the UK who would otherwise be alone on Christmas Day.

Those benefitting from the initiative will be able to come together with other people in a similar situation to enjoy a free Christmas lunch with a drink of their choice and some jolly community spirit.

Matt Woodhouse, Regional Manager for Managed Houses at Hall & Woodhouse, said: “The community sits at the heart of our purpose at Hall & Woodhouse and making everyone feel at home in our pubs is something we strive to achieve every day.

"We know that Christmas can be a difficult time for some, and the day can be shadowed by grief and loneliness. With that in mind, it’s important to us that we offer a warm and welcoming space to be on Christmas Day for those who find themselves alone this season.

"Collectively across the estate, we anticipate that the value of this investment into the communities we operate in will be over £25,000, as we hope to support hundreds of people in need.”

Places for Hall & Woodhouse’s ‘Community Christmas Table’ initiative are secured on a first come, first serve basis, with waiting lists available in case of cancelation. Guests can request a seat for themselves or be nominated by another party.

To get in touch, simply call, email, or direct message one of the participating pubs on social media.

To read more about Hall & Woodhouse’s Christmas events and to see its Christmas menu, visit www.hall-woodhouse.co.uk.