Christmas lights are a key way of not only showing festive spirit, but to brighten up the darker winter months. They’re a central aspect of decoration both inside and outside the house, ranging from fairy lights to impressive large-scale light shows.
Lower Morden Lane has become increasingly well known in its area as the “Christmas Lights Street”. Here, the residents go above and beyond the usual festive expectations to put together an impressive street long display, attracting viewers from far and wide. Local resident, Danny described visiting this road as a “personal Christmas tradition that never fails to disappoint!”
In a true display of Christmas spirit, the residents collect charitable donations from passers-by and donate the money to St Raphael’s Hospice. The impact that this tight-knit community has had is huge, with £170,000 going to St Raphael’s Hospice and £60,000 going to other charities over the past 20 years. St Raphael’s is a local Hospice that provides free specialist care to those living with life-limiting illnesses, as well as providing support for their family and friends. It recently celebrated its 30th Anniversary, after giving out so much to the local community since 1987.
The use of lights at Christmas can be traced back to 17th century Germany, when small candles were placed on Christmas trees. In 1882, the first string of electric Christmas tree lights was invented by Edward H. Johnson (a friend of Thomas Edison) in New York City. This has steadily developed over time into the Christmas lights that we love and use today.
Laila Shah-Grant, RR6 Sixth Form
