The Christmas Day lunch in Marlborough town hall is becoming so popular that organisers Nigel and Joy Kerton are urging other towns to set up their own event.

The event is in its tenth year and is held for pensioners but, with 64 people signed up, the day is already at full capacity and organisers will have to start turning people away.

Former Gazette reporter Nigel Kerton said: “We told people that they could sign up until December 1 but we had to close a week early.

“We have people who use the Jubilee Centre from Wootton Bassett and Pewsey coming because there’s nothing for them closer to home.

“I’m worried that some of the regulars who were leaving it until the last minute to sign up will have missed out but it works on a first-come, first-served basis.

“We don’t want to be uncharitable but next year we’ll have to start saying people have to live within a certain radius of Marlborough to attend because charity starts at home.”

Mr Kerton is planning to go to town and parish councils in Wootton Bassett, Pewsey and Devizes to see if similar events can be launched in these areas.

He and his wife, a professional chef, have said they are more than happy to offer advice to anyone interested in setting up such an event.

Mr Kerton said: “You get a great feeling from doing it because you know that if you weren’t there some of these people would be by themselves at Christmas.

“We’ve got our eldest granddaughter Eivie Kerton cooking and our youngest Vicky Ellis waitressing.”

To volunteer to help on the day, call (01672) 512059.