THE Covid-19 pandemic failed to dampen the Christmas spirit of the organiser of an over-50s’ club in Musselburgh, who turned ‘Mrs Claus’ to ensure members enjoyed some festive fun.

Carol Edmond, who runs the club at the Store Club, delivered free Christmas dinners to about 40 members, helped by her friends ‘elf’ Barbara Edgar and ‘reindeer’ Mary Malcolm.

They were determined to ensure the festive season was celebrated, despite the club being unable to meet up for its annual Christmas meal amidst the coronavirus crisis.

The club usually meets every Thursday afternoon, enjoying performances by singers including Jim Robertson, from Wallyford; Eddie Raven, of Port Seton; and also James Martin and Corinne Di Ponio.

Carol said: “As we have been closed for lockdown, I decided to give 40 of our regular members a free Christmas dinner.”

Quinnsters Bakery supplied steak and mince pies, and soup and trifle was sourced from local shops.

The festive dinners were well received by club members, as Carol explained: “I think it’s important that we all stick together and Christmas cheer never fails to make someone smile. Everyone was happy to see us and it was so nice to see them.”

Members have been entertained during the pandemic with a Facebook group called Over 50’s @storeclub, which has 400 members.

Carol added: “After lockdown, we are going to have one night a month at Store Club for our members to get together in the evenings, as well as our weekly Thursday afternoons. I would like to thank the Store Club.”