For some, it’s not Christmas until the lights are switched on at the Chase residence in Chester Road, Whitchurch.

The big unveiling took place on Friday when Santa Claus arrived at the home of Sheila and Keith Chase, who have decorated their house full of Christmas lights for the last decade.

While Sheila was keen to play down the event, she was delighted with how many people turned out to help raise money for the Midlands Air Ambulance, hoping to reach a milestone in 2018.

“It’s all about the word of mouth that leads people to come,” she said.

“For some people, it’s becoming an event but I just want to thank all the people for their support and go out of their way to help us.

“It was lovely to hear that people came from the nursing home. We try to cater for everyone and we have a bit of a party.

“The kids love seeing Santa and his reindeers. It’s bringing a bit of magic to young and old in the town to raise money for the Air Ambulance.

“We want to give something back to people in the area. Everything that people puts in the pot gives something to the Air Ambulance, though we want know how much we’ve raised until after Christmas.

“But we’ve made a really good start. I don’t think people realise how hard we work to give something to the town. Last year, we reached £35,000 over the last 10 years and who knows, we might reach £40,000.

“But whether it’s a penny or a pound, it all helps.”