Diners sitting down to their Christmas dinner at the Lowestoft Over 60s community club's festive event were surprised to be given their ticket money back to them as they sat down for Christmas pudding.

Members of the club paid £5 to attend the annual festive dinner last Thursday December 15, but when they sat down to eat they were given their ticket money back.

The surprise came thanks to Kingsley Healthcare, who sponsored the event where more than 80 people turned up to eat and chat over a Christmas meal.

Potters Resort, in Hopton, were also involved in helping with the event, providing entertainment throughout the afternoon with two singers coming along to serenade guests as they ate.

Mary Willis, President of the Lowestoft Over 60s club, said: 'Having a sponsor is something we've never had before, it's very good and we would like to say thank you very much.

'It's nice for guests to get their £5 because not everybody has money and perhaps they can buy themselves some luxuries.

'We are very grateful.'

Irene Kent, 78, from Kessingland, who attends the club regularly, said: 'It's a lovely club and so friendly.'

She said one or two new faces had attended the Christmas lunch and she hoped they would come back again in future.

The chairman of Lowestoft Over 60s club, said they were delighted with the support from Kingsley Healthcare. She said: 'We've never had anything like this before, I think what they've done for the town in general is amazing.'

She said the Over 60s club was important for a number of older people who may be on their own at this time of year, adding: 'Some of them come and its the only friends they have, some are lonely people but they make friends and chat.'

Chief executive officer of Kingsley Healthcare, Daya Thayan, said: 'We are proud to be a local company and have just moved into Kingsley House, just along from the over 60's centre, so we were delighted to sponsor their Christmas lunch as part of our plans to support the local community.'