LONGFORD Road’s renowned Christmas lights display in Melksham has attracted international coverage once again, following a two-year break.

Alex Goodhind organises the spectacular lights show with father Colin and friend Kim Bailey to raise money for Dorothy House Hospice, which cared for his mother Gill before she died in 2005 from pancreatic cancer.

They have spent five weeks putting up the decorations, which have attracted publicity from around the world in previous years – more than 200,000 lights cover the house.

Since the lights were switched on last week, the family has been contacted by a number of media organisations, including ABC News in America.

Mr Bailey said: “The reception so far has been absolutely amazing. This year we have made it even more impressive than before and the snow machine and visits from Santa and his elves have only added to the experience.

“We have been contacted by a number of media organisations and that just shows the big impact it has. The crowds have been great and the kids absolutely love it.

“It is definitely the biggest and best we have ever had and there are lots more lights this year. The money is already coming in quickly and we hope we can raise as much money as possible for Dorothy House.

“It takes a lot of hard work, but it is all worth it when you hear the comments when the lights are switched on. The children are just awestruck.”

Mr Goodhind, who has raised £15,000 over the years for Dorothy House Hospice Care, uses 1,900ft of electric cable for the display of lights, as well as 70 waterproof connection boxes, 2,000 cable ties and 650ft of steel restraining wire.

Dad Colin said: “It took five weeks of working 13 hours every day to put the display together, but it is magical when you see look on the kids’ faces when they are switched on.”