Swindon Resident’s Elaborate Halloween Display Raises Funds for Charity, Features 7ft Pumpkin

A residence, specifically an end-of-terrace property, adorned with extensive Halloween decorations, has reportedly caused vehicles to reduce speed while simultaneously collecting donations for a charitable cause. Claire Cox, a resident of Kingshill Road in Swindon, has embellished her home with substantial decorative items, such as a 12ft (3.6m) grim reaper and a 7ft (2.1m) pumpkin. These displays are also illuminated after dark. Ms Cox is collecting funds for the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity (SANDS), an initiative she undertakes each year following the passing of her niece. Additionally, her rear allotment is slated for decoration to welcome visitors on Halloween night. She stated, “I’ve been collecting them for many years, friends and family buy them for Christmas and birthday presents.” Ms Cox keeps a significant quantity of these items in her garage, from which she selects components to realize her creative concepts, positioning decorations in all available areas, including at different elevations to ensure visibility for young children. The setup and inflation of her front garden display, situated adjacent to the road, required eight hours. Ms Cox further commented, “My ongoing joke is the council should pay me for traffic calming. As soon as they see it, the cars slow down.” She noted a “really positive” public response and stated her objective is to accumulate £1,000 for SANDS through her endeavors this year. Although she typically undertakes this activity annually, it was omitted last year because of a house fire, which necessitated her relocation for a period of 13 months. On Halloween night, Ms Cox’s allotment, located behind her residence, will feature a clown theme, incorporating live actors. She has also adorned her property for other seasons and intends to implement a snowman theme for Christmas. For updates, follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Story submissions can be sent via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.