Festive fundraisers have illuminated their aptly-named street in a quest to raise vital funds for charity.
Kind-hearted residents of Christmas Lane, Lowestoft, decorate and light their houses during the festive season and ask for donations to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Visitors come from far and wide to see the eye-catching extravaganza and last year the neighbours presented a bumper cheque for nearly £1,500.
The magical displays, featuring every house in the lane and some in surrounding roads, contain thousands of twinkling lights and everything from stars and bells to snowmen and Santas.
Resident Denise Bretton said: “We’ve been putting lights up for a number of years but it’s only more recently that it’s attracted attention, after BBC Look East came to do some filming in December 2019.
“It was just a neighbourly thing back then.
“However, when the cameras came back two years later, we started to realise there was an opportunity to raise money at the same time.
“People seemed to want to show their appreciation and, by then, many more houses from adjoining roads were joining in.
“EACH was suggested as it’s local and helps children and their families.
“Everyone agrees that it’s a wonderful organisation and we’ve found them to be extremely helpful and supportive of our endeavours.”
An estimated 350 people turned out for the official switch-on on 2nd December.
“We’ve been heartened and uplifted by the lovely comments from everyone,” added Denise.
“Every display is individual and produced out of community spirit to help spread a little light and happiness.”
Visitors have the chance to leave money in collection buckets. Alternatively, you can show your appreciation by heading here.
EACH Community Fundraiser Anne Austin said: “Once again, the Christmas Lane residents have pulled out all the stops to put on a spectacular display and show their support for EACH.
“It’s become an amazing, very popular and eye-catching tradition and our sincere thanks go to everyone who takes the time to make it happen.”
