A widow in Devon paid £1,000 for a group of strangers to have lunch with her on Tuesday at the Lamb and Flag in Ottery St Mary.

Betty Williams, 86, said she dislikes dining alone, and wanted to give back to others this holiday season in a way that meant others wouldn't have to dine alone at this time either.

About 40 people were treated to the lunch.

"I wanted to give pleasure to some people and to get them out among friends," the 86-year-old told BBC. "It's great."

Williams approached the town mayor, Glyn Dobson, about her idea, and he worked with local churches and Rotary Club members to gather guests for the luncheon. A brass band, carol singing, and a town crier also took part in the occasion.

"She's very generous to do this," Mayor Dobson said. "I love to see local people getting together anyway. And to see them coming just before Christmas to enjoy themselves is great."

The pub's landlord, Ron Miles, was amazed when he was approached about the luncheon 10 days ago.

"She's an incredible lady making a wonderful, wonderful gesture," Miles said of Mrs Williams. He added that it was "a phenomenal day."

Williams' generosity has apparently inspired people in the US, Australia, and across Europe to fundraise similar endeavours. Miles said the donations are rolling in.

"We've had such an incredible response," he shared. "We've collected just over £4,000 - enough funds for at least the next three years - and, with extra fundraising throughout the year, we expect it to be annual event."