OVER 120 pensioners in Denton have already enjoyed an extra special Christmas.
The town’s monthly luncheon club holds an annual festive get-together – which this year has been supported by the team working on the replacement of the M67 St Anne’s Road bridge.
Volunteers from National Highways and its partners Tilbury Douglas served up traditional festive food with all the trimmings, plus donated prizes for a bumper Christmas raffle and bingo.
Team members regularly give their time to help at the club which meets at Denton Festival Hall – where volunteers help serve food, donate prizes and provide company for the older people who attend.
Denton Luncheon Club was established to bring older folk together who might be isolated and founded by local councillor Denise Ward.
“The team have been volunteering at the luncheon club ever since the bridge work began,” she said.
“They help serve dinners, clear tables and provide great raffle and bingo prizes which our residents have really come to appreciate. They’ve also helped with our other community events, like Denton’s Party in the Park, so we’re very grateful.”
Mangat Bansal, who is the Delivery Manager for the St Anne’s Road bridge project at National Highways, commented: “Our team is proud to play an active and supportive role in the community, lending a helping hand and making a real difference.
“It’s not just about building bridges and roads – it’s about being a good neighbour and supporting the community.”
Claire Firbank, from Tilbury Douglas, added: “We are always proud to support the Festival Hall luncheon club. The pensioners’ Christmas dinner is a highlight of the year, it is always a very special day with a special atmosphere, and we are happy to help serve the lunches, clean up, donate prizes and spend time getting to know the residents.”
National Highways have also supported the local community by sponsoring nearby St Anne’s Primary School’s events, supporting St Anne’s Church fundraisers, donating regularly to the local Morrisons’ foodbank, and providing educational visits for schools and organisations to the bridge site through the Open Doors educational initiative.
Work to replace the St Anne’s Road bridge over the busy M67 motorway is continuing and due to finish in early 2026.
The team working on the £23 million project met with dozens of residents to provide the latest details at a recent public information event.