We are constantly reminded that Christmas is a time for togetherness – for family and friends.
But today's society is all too often at odds with the community spirit of a few decades ago.
The 'open door' mentality has been eroded. And what of those people with no family circle?
Perhaps their families have moved from the area, or their partner has passed away.
For them, Christmas isn't a time for warmth and joy, it's the season of depression and dread.
Of sitting alone with only the small screen for comfort.
But here in Milton Keynes, the remarkable generosity of one family and a swell of terrific volunteers means that thousands of people who would have spent Christmas Day alone have enjoyed companionship, entertainment - and that traditional Crimbo dinner!
The Milton Keynes Christmas Day Party for the Elderly (MKCDPE) began in 1979. Organised by the Mayor, it catered for 25 elderly guests, and the foundations were laid for an annual event.
Demand grew, and more numbers were catered for year on year, until larger premises became a necessity, and the Argos Head Office became merriment central.
In 2006 the venue changed to the current location at the Santander Building in Shenley Wood.
Ruth Seabrook has been at the helm of the event for more than two decades, and it's a family affair.
“We decided to volunteer 23 years ago as we were fed up of spending Christmas watching television,” Ruth recalls.
Since that time, an estimated 2300 have enjoyed the comforts provided.
Ruth gets her festive rush not by watching re-runs on the small screen, or by drinking too much before lunch.
Her Christmas is rewarding in a far more significant way: “Seeing the happy faces of the elderly guests at the end of the day,” is what does it.
“We hear heart-rending stories of loneliness each year,” she says.
“On this special day, we try to alleviate the pain of loneliness. The volunteers give our senior guests a gift which they cherish. The donations give our volunteers the tools and means to provide a gift which is remembered long after the Christmas decorations have been put away...
“Volunteers can also be lonely, but get satisfaction in helping and looking after our guests,” Ruth said.
Total MK made contact with the service on behalf of a concerned resident in Milton Keynes.
She told us that a 95 year old neighbour had spent last Christmas at home alone, crying and asked if we might be able to locate any get-togethers in the area for people who would otherwise spend the day alone.
Pretty soon we were relaying the story to Ruth, explaining how last year, the lady in question had seen Christmas Day through her tears.
“Not this year she won't! She's coming to us!” said Ruth, quick as a flash, her warmth showing itself down the phone line.
And it's for that reason we want to push the word out further.
No-one should spend Christmas alone, and here in the new city thanks to Ruth and that small army of volunteers, no-one needs to.
The MKCDPE is an all-involved blast of fun with sing-alongs, entertainment, that Christmas luncheon (freshly prepared by a professional chef), tea, coffee, biscuits and a little splash of alcohol to raise the Christmas cheer.
Oh, and the man in red (the one with the big beard) will be present too.
The MKCDPE is aimed at those aged 60 or older and on their own.
If you know someone that could benefit from the service, or if you yourself would like to take a seat at the event click here or call 01908 647510.
