CHRISTMAS lights have put extra sparkle into the life of a man left wheelchair-bound after a stroke.
John Parker, 73, has been unable to walk for seven years but his wife, Vera, and four sons ensure the festive season is celebrated in style, filling their large garden plot in Burland with lights and characters.
The couple also hold a collection every year, with funds split between Crewe and Nantwich Stroke Association and Alder Hey Children's Hospital.
Vera, 76, said: 'We started putting lights up about 11 years ago, and were one of the first in the area.
'Back then the choice was limited. Now you can buy anything and they cost less to run.
'Our sons, Les, Alan, Raymond and Steven, do the labour, putting the lights up. This year it took two weekends, because we have so many.
'We have a half-acre garden plot opposite our house in Brook Lane which is covered. John enjoys sitting in the house, looking at them through the window.
'It's a private lane but people come down to take pictures, which we don't mind because there is space for them to turn.
'Neighbours back us because it is for charity and the little children next door and our 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren love them.'
Four years ago the couple won a Best-Dressed Christmas house competition sponsored by ScottishPower.
They raise between £300 and £500 for the charities each year.
John, a retired maintenance engineer, also used to work as an electrician and can advise on the technical side of things.
Vera, a retired swimming coach, teaches swimming to children at Nantwich Pool.
She added: 'Some of them are patients at Alder Hey Children's Hospital so I like raising money for the hospital.'
This year the spectacular display features miles of twinkling rope lights, three giant Santas and snowmen as well as Santas riding a motorbike, on a swing and see-saw.
