Donkeys, carols and an appearance from Father Christmas brought festive cheer to East Cowes last week.

Forty guests enjoyed a delicious lunch at Barton Manor, as a party for socially isolated older people — organised by Rouse Ltd and Age UK IW — proved popular.

Organiser Alex Pugh, of Rouse Limited, said: "I feel humbled by the generosity of all the individuals and organisations whose help and support made Jingle and Mingle a huge success."

The day was heralded as a success, and a step forward in raising awareness of the issue of social isolation.

Maria Bunce, of Age UK IW, said: "Loneliness is high-profile news at the moment and the timing of this event has been perfect; I hope it will raise awareness here on the island.

The Age UK IW volunteering project is currently funded by the National Lottery, with the funding due to end in March 2020. The charity is now looking for future funding.

Anyone interested in helping can e-mail maria.bunce@ageukiw.org.uk.

THE Wight Brainy Bunch held their third annual Christmas Market, when Ryde Fire Station was transformed into a Winter wonderland.

Visitors browsed 30 stalls and heard from the Melodic Choir, Vectis Corps of Drums, Wight Ukers, Arreton Primary School hand bell ringers, Cinnamon and Cantobelle.

Children were captivated by a craft corner, inflatable snow globe, a visit to Father Christmas in his magical grotto, and the opportunity for festive photos courtesy of the Island Photo Centre.

Congratulations were in order for Design a Christmas Card Competition winner Rosie, 10, from St Helens Primary School, and runners up Georgia Rose also from St Helens, Lily from St Blasius and Casey Rose

from Nettlestone Primary.

THE Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary held its annual carol service on the weekend ­— a two-day spectacular complete with Christmas music from the Wight Accordion Group.

On Saturday, December 15, the formal service commenced at Paddy's Penthouse barn, celebrating the true meaning of Christmas.

The Wight Accordion Group performed Christmas carols, together with a light-hearted re-enactment of the Christmas story, led by reverend, Keith Adlam, and licensed lay reader, Rita Goddard.

The event proffered a chance for visitors to get into the Christmas spirit, enjoy the company of the donkeys, and join Santa and his little elf helper in the grotto, dishing out special donkey gifts.

"It's the first time we've ran the event over two days," said the charity's business manager, Carol Foote.

"It's become really popular, and people even come from the mainland to see it.

"It's a wonderful event, and raises money for the sanctuary at a time when costs are high and income is low.

"It's hugely beneficial for the charity, and we've received terrific support from people all across the Island.

"We actually had a couple visit who had come all the way from Germany."