A home in Peacemarsh in Gillingham is being lit up with a huge display of Christmas lights in aid of the charity Help for Heroes.

The house in Marlott Road, which is next to the entrance to Budmouth Drive, is adorned with a massive array of different lights and visitors and passers-by are being invited to stop, take a look and then contribute to the charity.

‘The event will go on to view until the end of the month and is free for anyone wishing to view, however any donations are appreciated and go to the charity directly,’ said  Tony, who is doing the light display with his friend Andy and their respective families.

‘We feel it’s time that our military service personnel have the help they require when they need it and were proud to support doing something like this, as it takes extraordinary people to protect and serve our country.’

Tony added: ‘We hope the people of Gillingham and surroundings areas will help us raise money to aid them as all donations received will be forwarded directly onto them. We have official Help for Heroes merchandise available for sale wrist bands for £2 and badges for £5 and we accept any charitable donations too. Alternatively anyone who wishes to donate online can do so via the website www.helpforheroes.org.uk/donate-online/ then select money raised through an event or collection and add this Event I.D in the subject box GEN01999373.’

Tony says that he and his friend Andy had originally put up the lights in previous years just to ‘spread festive joy’.

He said: ‘After people enjoyed them, we decided that this could help benefit charities with donations.’