Christmas need not be lonely thanks to K’s Coffee Shop and Forres Baptist Church

Everyone seeking company, food, drink and and, most importantly, fun on December 25 is welcome to two drop-ins.

In the spirit of Christmas, K's Coffee Shop on Falconer Avenue and Forres Baptist Church on Clovenside Road are catering for those who may struggle at a time of year that can be particularly difficult for many people.

K’s co-owner, Stephanie Wallace, confirmed the more who attend, the merrier.

She said: “Whether you are home alone, out for a walk with the dog or working, we hope you will pop in and enjoy a great day with us!

“Please do not feel embarrassed or shy - we are a friendly bunch who welcome everyone who comes through the door.”

K’s opened on Christmas Day last year for the first time, helping Stephanie and her business partner Sue Farish cope with the loss of a very special family member.

Stephanie explained: “We lost my brother and Sue’s husband Kevan very suddenly in 2022, which devastated our family. After that, celebrations just felt wrong without him.

“Enveloped in a great sadness, we decided to open our doors on Christmas Day to others who may also find this time of year sad or difficult.

“Also, a lot of people are on their own for Christmas, so we want to prevent this and bring a bit of joy to the day instead.

“Having spent many years enjoying a traditional family Christmas and probably taking it for granted, we want to make a difference to those who need it.”

Around 50 people attended K’s Christmas drop-in last year and Stephanie hopes there will be even more this time.

“Last year was fantastic!” she said. “There was a great atmosphere and everybody really enjoyed themselves.

“There was live Christmas music courtesy of Reverend Stuart Finlayson and we all joined in for a sing-song. Everyone chatted to each other and made new friends.”

This year, there will be free homemade soups, sausage rolls, quiche, sandwiches, Christmas cake and lots of other sweet treats served on a “help yourself” buffet.

K’s have received several donations, including money from Baxters of Speyside and Stollen (fruit bread) from The Pantry on High Street.

“Tez at Iolaire on the High Street also very kindly printed flyers for us, free of charge,” added Stephanie. “Our nephew Leon delivered them round the houses up Knockomie, to let folk know what is happening.”

There will be a free raffle with prizes for all attendees, board games and live music from Rev Finlayson as well as K’s baristas Zac Judd and Caleb Poucher.

“Both these boys have been on the K's journey with us since the beginning,” said Stephanie. “They are an important part of our team and also very talented.”

She added: “There will be a wee dram for anyone who wishes to partake, along with wine and soft drinks.

“Our coffee machine - Tom - will be fired up and ready to go for hot chocolate or coffee. This will be the only thing that we charge for.”

K’s Coffee Shop has been well supported by customers since opening in July, 2023.

“We have been extremely lucky,” said Stephanie. “We have been busy beyond our wildest dreams and have several regulars we have a great relationship with.

“Originally it was just going to be myself cooking and serving - we now have 12 on the payroll!”

K’s is open from 11am to 3pm on Christmas Day.

At the opposite end of town between Forbeshill and Drumduan Park, Forres Baptist Church is also offering free food and company at Christmas.

Church secretary, Rosemary Pannell, confirmed it has done for the last two festives, offering Christmas lunch for around 24 people-a-time.

She said: “There’s a lovely, friendly atmosphere, lots of good food and fun.

“All sorts of people come along, mainly adults and often those who would otherwise be alone.”

The doors will be open from 10am to noon on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with free drinks and treats. Carols will be played and a warm welcome extended to everyone who attends the cosy and comfortable space.

“Christmas can be a very difficult time for many people,” said Rosemary. “We offer company and friendship to anyone who might otherwise feel lonely and isolated on a day when others enjoy time with loved ones.

”We know it can be difficult to go somewhere new but, rest assured, it will be a very relaxed, comfortable and informal atmosphere.”

She finished: “Don't forget how much of a blessing you can be to someone else if you come along and extend the hand of friendship.”