That is the main reason organisers keep coming back to put on the Leeton Community Christmas Lunch every year.

Held on Christmas Dayat St Peter's Hall, the event is open to all residents.

It's a chance for those who might be without family or friends in Leeton the chance to still enjoy a festive together, as well as anyone else wanting to share the special occasion with others from the community.

Invitations and flyers that can be filled out to take part have all been distributed, with the planning committee well on their way to making sure this year's event is like no other.

"Planning is all in place," committee member Maureen Sheldrick said.

The committee was out in force at Light Up Leeton on Sunday with a pasta stall to raise funds for the lunch.

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One thing is for sure is there won't be anyone going home hungry from the Christmas Day event.

"It's a two-course lunch with all of the trimmings ... we also have so many nibbles on the tables, it's all just delicious," Mrs Sheldrick said.

The word "community" in the event's title is there for a specific reason.

Not only is the committee made up of volunteers, but residents also come along on the day to help out whether it be by cooking, washing up or serving the food.

St Joseph's Primary School also raises funds for the day, which goes towards to the purchase of gifts for participants. Money raised by the committee and the school also helps purchase gifts for nursing homes in the shire and the Forever Johnno Foundation.

The concept has been going for some years now, but what keeps everyone coming back, including the volunteers?

"I think it's the smile on everyone's faces and the people who come to help," committee member Sue Ryan said.

"It's the true spirit of Christmas."

It's easy to be part of the event. Register by filling out a form at either the Leeton Community Op Shop, St Vincent de Paul and the Leeton Multipurpose Centre in Wade Avenue.

There is also a giving tree at the Golden Apple Super Store where residents can leave gifts for the event.

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