A care home in Redditch is set to open its doors to older people on Christmas Day in a bid to tackle loneliness.

Millcroft Care Home is inviting all over-65s to enjoy a hot meal and take part in the festive celebrations on a day where almost 1.5million older people feel lonelier than at any other time in the year according to Age UK.

The luxury care home hopes the scheme will ensure that no older people will be spending Christmas alone this year.

Home manager at Millcroft, Lyndsay Sard, said: “No one should feel alone least of all at Christmas. Our incredible residents and team members want to open their hearts to older people in and around Redditch who might find Christmas to be a difficult time.

“Our guests will be able to enjoy a traditional Christmas meal and relax in a warm and safe home. We’ll be bringing out some classic games and festive movies as we just want everyone to feel part of the family.”

Millcroft resident, Pat Tuckley, aged 87, added: “I think it’s wonderful for people to know that they don’t have to be alone and that they are welcome somewhere so full of smiles, laughter and love.”

For more information or for anyone who knows someone that would like to join the residents at Millcroft for Christmas Day call 01527 433 384 or email Millcroft@idealcarehomes.co.uk