Lighting up Christmas (From Chard & Ilminster News)

Lighting up Christmas

8:39am Sunday 24th December 2006 in Chard By News reporter

MOVING illuminated reindeer and a dazzling array of lights earned 37 Ashcroft the title of best decorated house in Chard this year.

Deputy mayor and mayoress Martin and Nanette Wale, Christmas lights committee chairman Jill Watts and News chief reporter Alex Cameron took to the streets on Monday night to judge this year's competition.

The town boasts some superb displays, including the 2003 champion at 1 Russell Pope Avenue.

But this year's winner was the eye-catching and colourful display at 37 Ashcroft, where Deborah Smith and her son Adam were on hand to receive the trophy.

The judges also viewed some spectacular efforts, including those at 15 Helmstedt Way, and 19 Bondfield Way.

Receiving the silverware, which will be engraved with all the winners' names in the new year, Mrs Smith said: "I'm absolutely ecstatic.

"A lot of hard work and a lot of electricity have gone into this!

"We've built it up over the years - I love the moving reindeer and I love coming round the corner and seeing it all lit up."

The presentation crowned a good year for Mrs Smith, who also won a town gardening competition in the summer.

Judge Martin Wale said: "Well done to everyone who took part. We thought 37 Ashcroft was an extremely cheerful display."

Photos of the houses are on a special on-line gallery at www.chardandilminsternews.co.uk - but we want more! Send us your photos of illuminated houses in the Chard, Ilminster and Crewkerne area and we'll add them to the gallery. Pictures can be e-mailed to newsdesk@chardandilminsternews.co.uk In Ilminster, make sure you see 33 Blackdown View - there's also a photo on the on-line gallery.