A north-east pub has been overwhelmed by generosity to make food parcels for lonely pensioners at Christmas.
Staff at the Brander Arms in Lossiemouth had set an ambitious target of matching the 40 packages they were able to gift wrap last year.
However, after being inundated with donations from generous customers, they have been able to pack 83 boxes with festive treats and essentials.
Last night, employees and regular customers raced round the Moray town to deliver the lovingly-prepared gifts to their grateful recipients.
Pensioner Helen Edwards, better known as “Peggy”, was the first to receive her selection box yesterday as Santa made a special visit to her house.
Inside the colourful parcels, which were all destined for people who live alone, were non-perishable items including tinned pies, soup, canned fruit and sweets.
Also included was a cracker and a £5 voucher for Macleman butchers in the town to buy fresh meat.
Staff and dozens of customers all contributed to the £1,360 collection total in the seaside bar.
Landlady Lynn Mitchell said: “It’s awful to think that people are going to be on their own at this time of year. We need to look after our elderly.
“Pensioners can be very proud and some of them would never dream about going to a food bank, they would rather do without.
“Nobody should be going hungry at this time of year. I think the cause strikes a chord with everybody.”
As well as parcels to single residents, donations have also been delivered to share at the Hersbruck Court sheltered housing complex and Whinnybank care home in the town.
It is the second time the pub has organised the collection. Last year, staff had cash ready for about 20 parcels before it was stolen.
However, the community responded with generosity and managed to raise enough cash to replace them with twice as many donations at short notice.
Mrs Mitchell added: “It’s just the kind of community we are. Everybody is very generous and wants to do their bit.”
