Angel Central’s Ellie Sutton with Alcina Noronha

CHRISTMAS came early for elderly residents across the borough as the Tribune made special deliveries of festive treats.

Thanks to our generous readers, we were able to dish out hampers filled with cake, biscuits, tea and much more to spread a little cheer as part of our fifth annual Hamper Appeal.

At a time of year which for most of us is filled with family and friends, we wanted to do our bit for those who may be spending the festive season alone.

We dished out the Marks & Spencer hampers to a community centre and went door-to-door to make individual deliveries. First off was a visit to Alsen Day Centre, in Finsbury Park, where visitors were enjoying their Christmas lunch.

Centre manager Lloyd Coombes, also playing the part of the Tribune’s Santa, said: “Thank you to the readers of the Islington Tribune for their donations. This can be a lonely time of year for some of our service users – this will brighten their Christmas.”

Then, with the generous help of taxi firm Addison Lee and driver Gordon Acheampong, we hit the road to make deliveries. Angel Central shopping centre’s Ellie Sutton, who lives in Barnsbury, joined in to help hand over the gifts.

Angel Central boosted the hamper fund with a generous donation. The centre’s manager, Lynne Glover, said: “The Tribune has been collecting money from businesses and residents, which has made this wonderful initiative all possible. We are proud to have been able to be part of it.”

Alcina Noronha, who lives on the Barnsbury estate, was thrilled with her hamper.

“I can’t believe it,” she said. “Thank you so much. My Christmas has come early!”

Another recipient, Santha Peters, who lives in Holloway, said: “Thank you for doing this.”

Highbury Christ Church vicar Jonathan Brewster was given some hampers to distribute to those in need in his community. He and his wife Sarah will dish out hampers when they spend their Christmas morning checking on people.

The Tribune’s Alan Harding said: “We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this very worthwhile cause.”

The appeal was backed by Mayor Kat Fletcher, Islington North MP Jeremy Corbyn, Islington Pensioners’ Forum chairman George Durack and TV favourite Linda Robson.