A RECORD cash handout from a Sidmouth supermarket has secured the future of a community Christmas lunch that boosts residents who face spending the special day alone.

Shoppers in their droves at Waitrose in Stowford Rise voted for the event when it was selected as a beneficiary of the firm’s Community Matters scheme.

The £1,410 handed over by the store’s department manager, Ali Wallace, to Community Christmas Lunch organisers Mick and Angie Carney was hailed as the biggest amount to go to a single cause to date.

“Receiving this amazing donation means the lunch is here to stay for the next two or three years at least,” said a grateful Angie.

l MORE than 60 people attended this year’s lunch at St Theresa’s Hall. Report and photos on page 36.