Many homes have still been decorated with colourful Christmas lights this year – but few households make this much effort.
Simon King has completely covered his home in New Barns Avenue, in Ely, with stunning lights and inflatables simply to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
He said: “I generally make the effort for my children, and it’s so rewarding to see the joy it brings to everyone who passes-by.
“I’m visually impaired and because of my sight issues I have very little to do. I can’t work, I can’t drive, I don’t go out, I’m nervous of tripping and falling – so this is a rewarding project for me.
“When people tell me the lights are amazing, it makes me feel appreciated and good about myself.
“I also love the look on my kids’ faces when they see the lights for the first time. My daughter is seven, and I have two grown up sons Christian and Malachi. Christian is autistic.
“When I’m putting up the lights the school children all ask what I’m up to, and then want to see everything lit up at the end of their day.
“The display engages conversations, and after the tough time everyone had after Covid I really wanted to do something positive for the community.”
The majority of these stunning photographs were captured by reader Nicky Still, who regularly contributes to the Ely Standard.
Simon is well-known in the neighbourhood for his displays based around key occasions throughout the year including Valentine’s Day, St Patrick’s Day and Easter.
It took him a few days to assemble this year’s Christmas arrangement, which he planned in advance and tweaked if something didn't quite work out.
He has even braved the sub-zero temperatures this week to make sure everything is placed where it should be and working.
All the items are also low voltage to keep his electricity costs to a minimum.
Simon has considered setting up a charity collection for the lights, but someone told him there could be rules and regulations for such fundraising efforts.
He added: “People are still more than welcome to donate to a charity if they wish.
“The fact is the display is admired by so many people, from children to the elderly, and that’s what makes me feel appreciated.
“And I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.”
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