A Caversham Heights shop owner welcomed over 70 residents from across the area who found themselves alone on Christmas for an afternoon of festive fun.

Pritpal Singh Malhotra – known to many of his customers as Paul – opened the doors of the Conisboro Stores convenience store and post office offering a host of hot drinks and Christmas treats in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

After hearing that some of his regular customers had spent last Christmas alone, Pritpal said that he was determined to make sure that it didn’t happen again this year.

Notices were posted across the community inviting people to ‘drop by and say hi’ and to join in the festivities between 11 am and 2 pm on December 25.

He expressed his amazement after more than 70 people arrived at the store on Christmas day.

“The idea came to me last year when I asked one of my customers if they had had a good Christmas and they said they had not seen a soul,” said Pritpal. “I was determined that should not happen this year. Nobody should be completely on their own at Christmas”

Pritpal and his family were kept busy serving food and drink while the guests chatted – in some cases meeting near neighbours for the first time.

Residents who attended expressed their enthusiasm at the event.

Roisin, a local resident, said “This is a wonderful idea and I am very grateful for Pritpal’s generosity. After all – he didn’t have to do this.”

Steve, another local and one of Pritpal’s customers, spoke warmly of the local shopkeeper.

“Pritpal is a really friendly and generous man who provides an important service to the local community – especially elderly folk.

"I am sure the success of today means as much to him as it does to the people who have taken up his invitation.”