CHRISTMAS dinner arrived early for homeless residents courtesy of Colchester's Army chefs.

There was turkey with all the trimmings for diners at Colchester Emergency Night Shelter who received an extra special treat from the 16 Air Assault Brigade.

Chefs from the town’s Merville Barracks have volunteered their time weekly to cook dinner at the shelter since 2014 but always make a special effort for Christmas, which this year included decorating the centre.

Manager Marina Woodrow said: "Christmas is a time to be with family and friends but many homeless people are either estranged from, or without family or friends, which can make Christmas an incredibly lonely and isolating time.

"The Army Christmas dinner is a very special occasion at the shelter that really promotes an atmosphere of family and community.

"The work the Army chefs put into producing, not just an excellent meal, but also decorating the shelter and providing gifts to our residents is phenomenal, and we are as grateful as always for their support.

"Their weekly volunteering has also continued this year and we remain so appreciative of their commitment to our project, and helping the most vulnerable in our society."

One Night Shelter resident described the food as exceptional and said having the soldiers put on a show for them boosts their self-esteem.

Warrant Officer Class 1 Olly Rogers, the Brigade’s head of catering, said all the chefs feel grateful to be able to use their skills to give back.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Warrant Officer Class 1 Olly Rogers at the stove. Photo: Cpl Jamie Hart

He added: "It’s particularly important to make an extra effort at Christmas because the residents don’t necessarily have families and friends to celebrate with.

"The Brigade has been supporting the Night Shelter for several years now, and cooking for the residents has given our junior soldiers a different perspective on the challenges they may face in their lives.”