A WORLE man has once again transformed his home into a glittery Christmas wonderland.
John Burge, of 5 Spencer Drive, has brought Christmas cheer to passer-by's and neighbours with his charity light display, the proceeds of which will be donated to Wraxall's Charlton Farm hospice.
Run by Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW), the charity cares for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, ensuring support for both them and their families.
Since opening in 2007, the hospice has been providing a range of support including day visits and overnight stays for the whole family, at home visits, 24-hour telephone support, emergency stays, symptom management, dedicated support for siblings, end of life care and bereavement support.
The charity relies on support by residents to carry on its vital work.
Speaking back in 2021, John explained his inspiration behind the displays: "I saved a whole year's pocket money when I was just eight years old to buy my first ever set of Christmas lights, which only had 20 bulbs.
John's love for all things Christmas started young."When I was growing up, I did a few light displays in my mum and dad’s back garden but they could not be seen by the public only friends and family.
"Mum and dad always made my Christmases magical and special."
In 2011, John's efforts took on a whole new meaning, after a neighbour lost his son to leukaemia.
John added: "I did a Christmas light display outside the front of my home to raise money for the hospice that cared for their son.
"Each year the display has got bigger."
The display features a mock toy shop, called TJ Toy's, which won an award on ITV News. John's son, Tobie, has helped him create the festive feature throughout the years.
In 2020, the display raised more than £3,000 for CHSW and £5,000 was targeted for the 2021 display.
People are urged to stop, get out of their vehicles and see the lights up close to avoid congestion on the street. Where possible, people are also asked to park on the main road.
John added: "A big thank you to my son Tobie for all his help and support and also my lovely neighbours for all of there help and support and allowing me to do the display.
"People can feel free to walk around the display as long as they respect the display and other people and families around them."
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