PICTURES: Hundreds raised at Christmas light switch on

Debbie and Mark Scott, renowned for their impressive Christmas lights at their home in Windermere Crescent, were joined by Worthing mayor Sean McDonald and town crier Bob Smytherman for their switch on event.

The event has raised more than £600 so far for the small charity Against Breast Cancer in Abingdon.

The couple said they have used 19,230 lights to decorate their home, and have raised more than £3,500 in seven years of displays. They have raised funds in the past for Palatine School, St Barnabas Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Debbie joked that the process of planning and putting up the lights, which takes several weeks, can be stressful – but it is always worth it in the end.

“Sometimes we get close to threats of divorce – ‘whose idea was it to do this again?’ – but we are really proud when we see them come on and all the children comment as they go past. It makes it all worthwhile.”

The couple also have a letter box to Santa outside their home, and if children post a letter in it they will get a reply. The last chance to post a letter is Wednesday 21.

Have you checked out our new Christmas section yet?

It’s packed with ideas and tips to ensure you make the most out of the festive season.

There’s recipes, suggestions for presents and everything from choosing your tree to recycling your packaging and paper.

Go to www.worthingherald.co.uk/christmas/