Couple '˜astounded' as festive lights raise thousands for cancer charity

A Worthing couple said they were '˜astounded' after raising a big sum of money from their Christmas lights display.
Mark and Debbie Scott with mayor of Worthing Sean McDonald and town crier Bob SmythermanMark and Debbie Scott with mayor of Worthing Sean McDonald and town crier Bob Smytherman
Mark and Debbie Scott with mayor of Worthing Sean McDonald and town crier Bob Smytherman

Debbie and Mark Scott from Windermere Crescent, Worthing have raised more than £1,700 for the small charity Against Breast Cancer in Abingdon thanks to the display outside their home last year.

Sean McDonald, the mayor of Worthing, said: “This is a fantastic effort to raise money for a brilliant charity that is close to my heart. Many congratulations to Debbie and Mark for the time and commitment they have put into this event. I hope we can do even better this year.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Debbie said the amount of money raised brought tears to her eyes.

She said: “It’s quite stressful deciding how to make the display better than the previous year.

“Mark and I argue about it for a few weeks but once it’s in place and switched on the tension fades. You hear the cars pull up, the children jump out, the cameras flash and the coins drop into the collection box. It’s a lovely feeling when you hear the “wows” and “that’s my favourite one”. Then you just hope you’ll raise more than the previous year.

“We are absolutely astounded by the amount we’ve raised - £1700! Amazing. The whole thing brings tears to my eyes. We feel very proud and are really looking forward to this year’s display.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Debbie said that this year’s display will be in memory of Mark’s mum, Win Scott, who passed away nearly four years ago due dementia related illnesses.

They will be raising money for dementia services at Guild Care. Town crier Bob endorsed the choice as his mum is cared for by Guild Care at the Caer Gwent luxury home in Downview Road.

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

1) Make our website your homepage at www.worthingherald.co.uk/

2) Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Worthing.news

3) Follow us on Twitter @Worthing_Herald

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

The Worthing Herald - always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.