Mega Christmas light switch-on as family celebrates 'new additions'

A Christmas light switch-on event is returning for the festive season. Every year hundreds gather along the streets to watch as a single house lights up the neighbourhood to bring seasonal joy and raise funds for Alder Hey.

Owners Helen and Marty Walsh of Palmerston Drive, Hunts Cross, annually deck their home with thousands of Christmas lights. There's everything from neon trees in the garden and bridges along the house's perimeter to flashing snowflakes and stars on the walls, doors and windows.

The Walsh family raised £1,521.75 last year, taking their total to £5,148.78 since their fundraising efforts began in 2021. Helen told the ECHO: "Each year we raise money for Alder Hey because they do amazing work and support so many families with their care.

READ MORE: Christmas grottos and where to see Santa in Liverpool and Merseyside 2024

READ MORE: New themed bar is colourful fun but a missed opportunity

"It's a local charity and we have had the help of Alder Hey ourselves - our son has been there for various reasons - and that's why we continue to give back. The work they did earlier this year for the Southport victims was incredible. They deserve every bit of help."

Last year's event saw more than 13,000 lights synchronised to a festive soundtrack. Christmas classics included Fairytale of New York, I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday and Do They Know It's Christmas, alongside a handful of familiar favourites and pop classics for all ages to enjoy.

READ MORE: Liverpool Christmas Light Show 2022 transforms Halewood home

Helen revealed two new arrivals joined the family this year. She added: "There are new additions around the two resident Christmas trees, Bruce and Penny.

"They've had two babies called Clementine Pine and Zeuce the Spruce. We've expanded the family and also have new candy canes, sequences and a few new surprises".

The event is scheduled for Sunday, December 1, at 6pm. You can find the house at 7 Palmerston Drive, Hunts Cross, Liverpool, L25 9GD. You can read more on how to donate here.