The dinner celebrated 200 years of Charles Dickens books, with the festivities being presided over by a cast of Dickens characters.

Mr Bumble the Beadle (also known as Rev John Squires) and his good lady wife, Mrs Anne Chickenstalker (also known as Rev Elizabeth Raine), hosted the evening. Minor Canon Crisparkle (Rev. Matthew Wilson) was in attendance and music was provided by Woolwich Bagnet (Tim Huxley).

Many of the diners came dressed as their favourite Dickens' character.

The Scratchit children provided a Christmas Carol pantomime that haunted the audience with humour. A rollicking good time, complete with smoking bishop, was enjoyed by all. The Christmas celebrations came to a climax with a visit from Father Christmas.

The dinner supported the Wauchope Uniting Church weekly food program. Donations were received from local business to assist the church in this worthwhile endeavour.

Thanks go to the Hastings Co-op IGA, Vickers Fudge, Travelworld Wauchope, and Colonial Bakehouse. Wesley Employment provided waitstaff and the excellent team of volunteers who cook for the meals programme ran the kitchen for the night.

The Dickens of a Christmas in July Dinner raised more than $1250 to support the free weekly Community Meals Program which is held each Friday between noon and 2 pm in the Wauchope Uniting Church Hall in Hastings Street. The program provides a balanced, nutritious meal to those who find themselves in disadvantaged or difficult situations.

It also provides a supportive social space for those who are unemployed, frail or aged to meet in a non-judgmental and welcoming atmosphere. Donations of food (or money) to assist the program to continue are always welcome.