Around 100 pensioners will get a dinner and free festive knees-up this Christmas after the town hall gave up its own celebrations

For the fourth year running Islington Council has scrapped its Christmas party for staff and councillors and is putting the cash back into a do for people aged over 70.

The shindig at Islington Assembly Hall, Upper Street, Islington, on December 11 will see music from the Highbury Fields School band and a DJ, with shops and businesses providing food and drinks. Councillors will serve refreshments.

Cllr Janet Burgess, Islington Council’s executive member for health and wellbeing, said: “We’re delighted to be able to put on a Christmas meal for some of our older residents.”

Places are limited and residents are asked to call 020 7527 3012 or fill in a form from the council website by November 22 to enter the ballot.

The council will write to those who have been successful by December 2.