Wigan man transforms home into Christmas wonderland for hospice

The incredible Christmas scene at Mike’s home on Fairman Drive has certainly proved a hit with residents, with plenty of people heading round to see the stunning illuminated show.

He set up the incredible festive scene to brighten up the dark winter nights and spread some cheer at the end of what has been a very difficult year.

Mike, who was formerly in the Army and set up a graphic design business at the end of last year, is also doing his bit for a good cause by putting out collection buckets for Wigan and Leigh Hospice (WLH).

Mike, 34, said: “We’ve always had a lot of decorations up but this year we went over the top. I decided to make it extra special because we need it after a rubbish year.

“There are probably about 5,000 lights in the tree at the front, around 12 smaller trees, about 15 light figures, a laser on the house and lights in the window. There’s more to go up too, it’s going to keep growing and growing until I take it all down in the New Year.

“The reaction has been incredible. I only run the snow machine on Friday and Saturday and the first time I did it we had 30 people here, all socially-distanced.

“I’ve bought some candy canes to give out to kids when they donate. I’m just trying to spread a bit of cheer through the town.”

Mike also lit up the big tree at the front of his house during the Clap For Carers in the first lockdown in spring.

Mike put his graphic design skills to use helping the community during the first lockdown, making items such as wristbands and lanyards to support the NHS.

He raised around £500 and has already brought in an impressive three-figure sum for the hospice from his Christmas lights display.

He explained why he chose to back the Hindley-based charity with his winter wonderland.

Mike said: “I wanted to choose something local and the hospice works across Wigan and Leigh.

“My grandad was in there in 2012 and they are just a fantastic set of people. Whatever people there need, they get, and that makes such a difference.

“The donations show it is so close to people’s hearts.”

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