Kay Lea is one of around 700 people who receive a Christmas hamper, full of store-cupboard essentials and festive treats.

Christmas this year will be particularly hard for Kay, who lost Tony, her husband of 35 years, in May. Kay, 72, now lives in a bungalow in Herefordshire by herself. With her sister living far away, she often feels quite lonely and has struggled to adjust to life without her husband.

She said: “I met Tony in April 1983, and we were married by August. We’d been together ever since. It’s strange now how quiet the house is, as he used to be here all the time. He’d always be sat in his chair reading or with the TV on. Now it’s just me.”

Kay and Tony first got in touch with R.A.B.I in 2017 when Tony’s health started to decline and the couple were struggling to pay for heating. The charity soon started giving them quarterly grants to pay for their domestic bills.

“I’m ever so grateful to R.A.B.I for all they’ve done to help,” Kay said. “When my husband died, the welfare officer came out to help me organise the funeral. It means so much to know there’s a number to call if I ever need help.”

She added: “It’s a delight to receive a hamper at this time of year. It’s full of lovely things, especially the wine! And I certainly won’t go hungry over the holidays.”

R.A.B.I tailors each hamper to suit the person’s dietary needs. As Kay is diabetic, her hamper comes with sugar free treats that she can enjoy. The charity also provides vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free options.