Pubs, restaurants and hotels countywide are being asked to meet a charity challenge from three chefs.

In the lead-up to Christmas they are being asked by an Abingdon-based charity to set an empty place at all tables.

That will give diners the chance to put money on the empty plate to help the WRVS the Women's Royal Vol- untary Service. All the money will go towards providing extra Christmas meals for the lonely and infirm, down-and-outs and the vulnerable.

The idea comes from London chefs Ross Burden and Lotte Duncan and from Franco Taruschio who has a restaurant in Wales.

The "lay an extra place" campaign is asking everyone to think about the people who will be alone at Christmas.

The scheme will go nationwide this month.

Linda McCarthy, senior community fundraiser for the WRVS, said: "It is a great scheme to support your local community at Christmas while having a great time with your family, friends or workmates."