A Derry cafe that provides free Christmas dinners for those most in need has said that they are expecting their biggest demand ever as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite for many this festive period.
Claude's in Derry city centre' Shipquay Street has been spreading the Christmas cheer for more than two decades by offering a warm meal and a welcoming place on December 25.
In previous years demand has been high but speaking to MyDerry, owner Declan Moore said the diner expects demand this year to triumph over all others.
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And due to the need, the cafe won't be hosting the event in the cafe itself but rather in the City Hotel, allowing people to gather together in a beautiful setting overlooking the River Foyle.
Mr Moore said: "Claudes have been doing this for 20 plus years. We work via a referral system from all our partner statutory agencies such as Age Concern, Simon Community and others.
"We have direct contact with our volunteers via our Facebook post every year which goes out on November 17. Every year we are blown away by the volunteers and the support from the people of our city.
"This year we are expecting our biggest ever demand in our two decades doing this, with in excess of 470 people being served on Christmas Day.
"Let us take this opportunity to wish all our customers and our Christmas Day sponsors and volunteers a Merry Christmas and a massive thank you for your ongoing support spanning more than 20 years!
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