possible gift ... a full stomach.

For the fourth year running the Hands of Love ministry has reached out to the needy by laying on a traditional Christmas meal.

This year, the food stall was set up inside Court Street's old Bargain Centre -- now called The Potters House.

Organisers, fearful of rain, decided against holding it outside in a nearby yard.

Some 300 people wandered into the building on Saturday to be served by the Christian ministry's group of volunteers.

On offer, from 1.30 p.m. to 5 p.m., were turkey with all the trimmings, macaroni and cheese, Spanish rice and peas and rice.

To Hands of Love organiser Mrs. Fern Wade the small feast reflected the generosity of scores of people in the community who had donated food.

"I would like to say a big thank you to everyone for all their contributions,'' she said.

"Our Ministry works for the homeless and the helpless and we are looking forward to helping again next year.

"We wish everybody all the best for the holidays and wish them a safe New Year. People should remember Jesus is the reason for the season.'' Mrs. Wade had a special word of thanks for Hands of Love helpers Mr. Dennis Bean and Mr. Glen Iris.