The Glinton Friendship Club has met in the village hall every Monday for more than six years, but lunchtimes were always hit and miss thanks to an ancient cooker with a mind of its own.

The group had decided to raise cash for a new kitchen when their "white knight" appeared and saved the day.

Managing director of city firm Premier Kitchens and Bedrooms Iain Forsythe was asked for advice, and instead of giving a quote he offered to fit a brand new kitchen free of charge.

Club secretary Barbara Holdich said: "Our white knight, in the shape of Iain, came along and offered to donate a brand new kitchen, complete with the necessary cooker. It was like Christmas coming early."

Members of the club, for elderly residents in the village, near Peterborough, have enjoyed regular two-course meals since the kitchen was fitted.

Mr Forsythe said: "I was delighted to be able to help, and the smiles on their faces at the official opening made it all worthwhile."

The installation, tiling and flooring were made possible through the Community Leadership Fund, Glinton Parish Council and the village church.