Firefighters from Sidcup welcomed 24 residents through their doors.

The team cooked a meal and gave hampers to their guests.

The warming gestures also took place across other parts of London, in the form of carol concerts, present drops, parties and lunches.

Jane Philpott, London Fire Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner for Fire Stations, said: "As always, our firefighters will be bringing the Christmas spirit to hundreds of vulnerable older people and children who will be in hospital over the festive period.

“With so many people set to spend time on their own, it’s especially nice to welcome them into our stations and also ensure they are keeping safe from fires in their homes.”

Firefighters also took the opportunity to book in-home fire safety visits with those who attended.