Mike Denaro's home in Hindley has become a local attraction.
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Two homeowners have gone all out with their Christmas displays – and raised thousands of pounds for charity in the process.
Mike Denaro, from Hindley, Wigan, has turned his house into a winter wonderland to raise money for Wigan and Leigh Hospice.
The spectacular display consists of two snow cannons, a wooden wishing well and more than 5,000 LEDs.
Mike has also put up a cast iron mailbox for letters to Santa and replies to the letters that children post.
Mike’s impressive display raised £2,400 last year.
This is the second year Mike has raised money for the hospice this way. Last year he went viral when three police cars turned up at his house over concerns around social distancing.
Luckily, he had already reached an agreement with Wigan Council to ensure the festivities adhered to lockdown restrictions.
Though recent bad weather has meant donations have taken a hit, Mike is hoping to raise more than last year’s total of £2,400.
“It’s not just a case of donations, it’s the little things. A father and son with learning difficulties turned up and the son was thrilled to see the snow. The smile on his face said it all – magical,” said Mike.
Mike also volunteers with Wigan and Leigh Hospice, helping out with graphics, videos and technical advice.
He said: “A lot of people in the local area have known people that needed the hospice in their lifetime. I’ve seen how much they’ve been struggling, and people are more than happy to help.”
Paul Molyneux’s home in Shevington has raised £20,000 in total over the past seven years.
Nearby in Shevington, Paul Molyneux has also decorated his home for a good cause.
Paul is raising money for the Rainbow children’s ward at Wigan Infirmary with his festive display.
“We decided to raise funds for the Rainbow children’s ward because our own children have been ill in the past and needed to use the services there. The staff looked after them really well,” said Paul.
Paul, his wife Gill and their three sons have seen their Christmas decorations become a popular local attraction over the past few years.
“Over the seven years we’ve been doing this we have made in excess of £20,000. Last year was our best year fundraising, we made £4,500.”
This year’s display is made up of over 40,000 LEDs, a seven-metre-tall tree and a giant bear.
This year’s display took almost four weeks to install and consists of over 40,000 LED bulbs, a seven-metre-tall tree and a giant bear holding a candy cane.
It’s important to Paul that his three children know the importance of helping those less fortunate. “When we go to the ward to deliver the gifts that the money has raised, we always take the kids with us. Then they appreciate what all the work has led to.”
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