Lonely people this Christmas will be offered a place to spend 25 December, thanks to the return of a nationwide campaign.

The Christian broadcaster Premier is asking churches, charities, clubs and other organisations to contact them with details of local Christmas day activities planned in the area.

The 'Alone at Christmas' campaign was launched last week, and will promote venues online and on air so that people who would otherwise be alone can meet others.

The idea to launch the network was created three years ago by radio presenter Loretta Andrews.

She said she hoped it would once again produce a countrywide list of places for people to spend Christmas: "It's a big ask, but it's not nice for anyone to be alone, especially at Christmas.

"This is a great way for the Church to show the love of God in a practical way at Christmas time."

Loretta added: "We are confident that the scheme will receive the broad levels of support it has enjoyed in recent years."

Organisations wishing to promote a venue can complete an online form by visiting the Premier website here.