Train station turns into dining hall to serve 200 homeless people Christmas dinner

[Dracony]

THE Christmas spirit came to visit after a train station was transformed into a dining hall to give 200 homeless people a free dinner.

The yuletide party was held at Birmingham New Street station for those who do not have a place to call their own.

It included a hot three-course meal at a round-table area on the lower concourse.

A DJ, carol singers and even Santa Claus made an appearance at the event last night hosted by Midlands Langer Seva Society supported by Network Rail.

The evening was about bringing people together at a time of year when people struggle with loneliness.

Randhir Singh, chief executive of the society, told Birmingham Live: “Midlands Langar Seva Society are out seven nights a week, not only across Birmingham but across the UK.

“Our main purpose is to serve humanity and serve hot meals to people less fortunate than ourselves, give out hats, clothes and warm clothing and give hope.”

He added that this time of year is when people start to miss their families and the suicide rate is high.

Louise Gall was served a hot meal by volunteers in festive dress and said she spent the night before sleeping outside the station in the freezing cold.

The 41-year-old added: “What they have done for us is amazing.

“I live on the streets and without this I wouldn't have had a Christmas meal, the only way I could have had a hot meal would be by begging on the streets.”

Singh said he recognises about 90 per cent of the homeless who came as the number is said to be at crisis levels.

Donated food, soft drinks and Christmas crackers decorated the round tables.

Craig Stenning, deputy station manager, said it was all about giving back to the community.

The society, which won a TSB Local Pride of Birmingham Award in April 2017, is a non-profit organisation that aims to help the homeless and provide food to those in need.