Help raise money for Mind by visiting beautiful Dunton Corner Christmas lights

Around seven years ago, village residents Brett and Toni Docherty began lighting up their house each December, in what was a friendly rivalry with neighbours Kat and Graham.

As news of the spectacular street grew, the friends decided to use the display to raise money for charity, and now, as they are joined by neighbours Sam and Shelly, they have decided to raise money for mental health support.

Brett said: “People think we’re in competition, but we’re not, we’re best of friends. Those who have been to see the lights say that they are amazing, that it’s great we’re doing something for charity, and that it must have been a lot of hard work.

“Everyone in the village loves it and people have come from far and wide to see it.

“I’d like to say thank you to people for supporting the charity, particularly this year.”

It took Brett several weekends to prepare all the decorations, and he is thrilled that the street’s efforts have been featured on Good Morning Britain and Heart Radio, as well as shared widely in posts across social media.

Indeed, the lights have been well supported over the years, with previous donations raised for: Dunton Church, the Community Gardens, St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger, Garden House Hospice Care, Letchworth, and the British Heart Foundation.

Talking about Mind, Brett added: “I think again this year it’s been particularly hard for everyone, with mental health issues even harder. I’d encourage people to seek help.”

Brett’s sister-in-law Terri, who contacted the Chronicle, said: “They go to so much hard work that I just wanted to share it. It’s definitely worth a drive over; bring the kids and show them the amazing lights - the pictures don’t do it justice you need to see it in real life!

“One person said they had a complete ‘Elf’ reaction [a reference to the film] when they saw the lights! Even if you can’t afford to donate, we’ve just been in lockdown, come and get into the Christmas mood!”

To donate to Mind, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/dc-cl