Southampton man raises over £200 for Christmas light display

Lee Jenkins decorates his house on King George's Avenue every year during the festive period with inflatables, fake snow, and lights.

However, the cost of living crisis caused his electricity bill to soar to around £1.50 an hour.

The 27-year Millbrook resident launched a GofundMe campaign in September with hopes of raising funds to continue a family tradition.

He has been left "shocked" by the outpour of community support.

READ MORE: Bedford place opens its first-ever Christmas market

Decorations on Lee Jenkins home last year (Image: Hannah De Boltz, Newsquest)

The docker said: "It's been really good. We turned on all the lights last night and people just loved it.

"We put out bowls of chocolates for the kids and had the snow machine going and loads of people have been taking photos.

"When I spot a family outside taking photos of themselves with the lights I come out to put the snow machine on just to make it a bit more festive.

"We just wanted to do something to give back to the community for everything they have done for us.

"It's been a massive help and we wouldn't have done it without them. I set a £500 target just because you have to put a target on.

"I never even thought we would get even a bit towards the target and honestly it's amazed me."

He said that without the funds raised by neighbours his family wouldn't have been able to put on the lights.

He said: "We have added a couple of extra lights and an inflatable from last year to really give people their money's worth.

"I didn't think anyone would give anything and we had people donating £25. I wouldn't even give £5 in this current climate.

"It's really incredible what people have done and it just shows you how much people love the display."

At the time of writing, the fundraiser has raised £235.

Any money beyond Lee's £500 target will be donated to local food banks and Southampton Children's Hospital.

To donate, visit his GoFundMe page.