Seskinore family lights up the community for charity for second year running

A SESKINORE family has once again gone above and beyond with their dazzling Christmas decorations, this year raising funds for McClintock Pre-School in the village.

Last Christmas, the Crozier family raised over £3,000 for the MS Society through their festive display. Inspired by the overwhelming support, they decided to continue the tradition, choosing a local cause close to their hearts.

“We love decorating, so why not put it to good use?” Joe Crozier said.

Speaking about their decision, Joe explained: “We chose the pre-school as it’s local and we thought that it needed some funding. Our children, Robert and Emily, both went to the preschool as well.”

Visitors can donate in two ways: by the collection bucket placed at the family’s gate at 13 Main Street, or at the Village Store in Seskinore.

Joe added that the family spent two full days decorating and received sponsorship this year to help cover costs. “We also got a bit of sponsorship this year, and there is to be a banner from the school. We got £250 in total in sponsorship to pay for the lights and the expense of doing it.”

Reflecting on their growing festive tradition, he said, “Last year was our first time doing something like this, so we thought, we decorate the yard anyway, why not do it again and do it locally? And this is why we have decided on the pre-school.”

The family is also involved in other charitable efforts this season.

“Maybe next year, if we do it again, we would like to do a bigger charity. We are also doing a carol service in the church, and the Black Lodge is running it with the money going to Down syndrome,” he said.

“A girl who goes to the pre-school has Down syndrome and we decided to give the money from the carol service to go towards Down syndrome.”

The Croziers say their goal is simply to give back: “we believe in doing our bit for charity, and we like to do as much as we can.”

Their festive influence is spreading beyond Seskinore as well.

“We’ve put up a tree in Newtownsaville this year as part of their Christmas tree festival," Joe said.

Among the standout decorations at their home this year are several new features. “There is a helicopter and a helipad, there is an arch. We have done a lot of new Christmas decorations,” Joe shared.

Community response has been strong.

“People’s responses have been great. So far so good," Joe said.

Donations will remain open until January 6.