Now that’s a bright idea!
Street launches light show for charity
NEIGHBOURS in one close knit culde-sac are already in festive mood after decking out their homes with Christmas lights and decorations.
Four families in Tenby Grove, Chesterton, have adorned their houses with an impressive display of lights and decorations.
They held a fundraising event when they switched on the lights on Saturday and raised £230 for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice and the Donna Louise Trust.
Now they are planning to hold a similar event in December.
Jamie Morris, aged 29, said: “I have done it for years, but this is the first time I have done it for charity. I have followed on from my mum and dad and am just keeping up the family tradition.
“I have been collecting the lights and decorations over the years. It is expensive and I spend a lot of money. But it is worth it.
“We had a lot of people up on Saturday night. We served hot chocolate and reindeer food.
“The lights will be on every night from 5pm to 10pm and I put a collection bucket out from 5pm to 7pm for people to make donation. People have been generous.
“We have a fake snow machine and the kids love the lights.
“We usually turn them on at the end of November, but have done it early this year.”
Neighbour Pam Holdcroft, aged 57, said: “Last year, we put a few lights up, but there is a lot more for people to see this time.
“It’s good to put a bit of sparkle into people’s lives again, especially the children. The lockdown was awful for everybody.
“I don’t mind the culde-sac being full for a couple of nights. It is all for a good cause.”
Jamie’s mother-in-law, Annette Wright, lives three doors away from him. The 67-year-old said: “We started doing it a few years ago and this year we decided to make it for charity.
“We were amazed how many people came on Saturday night. We are hoping to put a bit of cheer in everyone’s life. It is good for community spirit and the kids. Everyone comes out and takes part.”
Husband Keith Wright, aged 64, added: “It’s for a good cause. It’s good to see everybody having fun.
“It is such a good cul-de-sac. We don’t get cars speeding up and down. Everybody will help each other. The neighbours are fantastic.
“We have been here more than 40 years. Everybody looks out for each other.”
The next fundraiser will take place from 5pm on December 4. Attractions include Santa and his elf, face painting, raffles, hot chocolate and sweets.