Worcestershire Couple’s Christmas Display Generates Over £13,000 for Air Ambulance Charity

For the past 22 years, Mick and Norma Gale have dedicated themselves to spreading festive cheer among their neighbours by extensively decorating their home with thousands of Christmas lights. This year’s significant switch-on event holds particular importance for the Gales, as they recently received a message of appreciation from the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity (MAAC). The charity calculated that Mr. and Mrs. Gale have accumulated over £13,000 in donations since they commenced their fundraising efforts 18 years ago. These contributions were made by visitors to “Santa’s Garden” at their property located in Worcestershire. “We never knew exactly how much we’d raised until the other night,” Mr. Gale stated. “It’s brilliant.” In addition to the lights, which Mr. Gale estimated to be “several thousand” though an exact count is challenging, the garden features over a dozen inflatable decorations. He described some of these, saying, “I’ve got an 8ft penguin, I’ve got a nodding reindeer which lies on the floor and nods his head.” He further added, “There’s a snowman, and Santa too.” Mr. Gale mentioned that he and his wife spend three to four weeks installing the decorations, “doing a little bit each day.” The Gales consider the effort worthwhile due to the charitable cause. Mr. Gale commented, “[MAAC is] an essential service,” explaining, “They don’t get government funding and you never know when you’ll want it.” He concluded, “It saves lives, and they should have all the support they can.” MAAC confirmed that the Gales’ contributions have assisted in funding numerous lifesaving missions. Diane Thomson of the charity stated, “We can’t thank them enough for their ongoing commitment to our cause, and wish them and everyone who has donated a very merry Christmas.” Mr. Gale also noted that Santa’s Garden provides benefits beyond charitable fundraising. He elaborated, “It brings joy to people.” The illumination of Santa’s Garden is scheduled for 17:30 GMT on Saturday at 66 Christine Avenue in Rushwick. Following this, it will be open to visitors daily from 17:30 to 21:00 GMT until December 28, encompassing Christmas Day and Boxing Day. For further updates, follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding their external linking policy is available.