A SPECTACULAR winter wonderland is about to come back to life as festive characters return to enchant children in Winsford.

Grandad David Robinson is once again putting the finishing touches to the magnificent Christmas display in his garden in Station Road.

The Guardian has been given a sneak preview as he prepares to switch on the lights earlier than usual next week.

Northwich Guardian:

Santa can be seen waving from a bedroom window

The 72-year-old has raised thousands of pounds for various charities since he started creating the incredible grotto 35 years ago, when his own two children were young.

Northwich Guardian:

Grandad David Robinson has been turning the garden of his Winsford home into a magical grotto for 35 years

Since 2013, he has raised almost £10,000 for St Luke's Hospice and hopes this year's display will set a new record as the charity desperately needs funds.

"St Luke's is struggling for money," said David. "They have had to close their shops and cancel events due to the pandemic."

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Northwich Guardian:

Generations of children have enjoyed visiting the winter wonderland

Due to Covid, David is unable to hold his usual tombola and raffle at a big switch on celebration but is confident that the local community will once again rally round to support his fundraising effort.

David's granddaughter Leah Banks, 20, has set up a JustGiving page to make it easier for people to donate during the pandemic.

"People have already put donations through the letter box," he said. "Everyone loves it. I get comments like 'My mum and dad used to fetch me to see it and now I'm bringing my grandkids. It's great that generations of families have enjoyed it."

Setting up the illuminated life-size figures is a labour of love. One tree alone has 2,800 bulbs.

Snowmen, reindeer, penguins, polar bears and Father Christmas have all been put into place.

A reindeer and sleigh are perched on his garage roof.

This year, new features including a rocking horse and more stringed lights have been added to the display.

Northwich Guardian:

A rocking horse is one of the new attractions this year

"I started getting the lights out in October," said David. "I've got thousands of different lights this time."

The much-loved adventures of The Snowman are screened on a projector and children can watch Santa waving from a bedroom window.

David, retired from his job at an insulation company, funds the entire display and electricity bill himself.

Northwich Guardian:

David's grandson Matthew Banks, 14, and his family help with the display

He wants to thank H&D Scaffolding North West who kindly provided scaffolding to help him to instal all the lights.

"It was a really big help because it is a long way to the apex of the house," said David. "It keeps you going and keeps you fit. The kids love it.

"I will keep on doing it so long as I am able to. The whole family is involved now and helps me.

"Every penny donated goes to the hospice, we don't take anything out for lights or expenses."

David asks people to observe social distancing when they visit the display.

A collection box will be available for donations.

To donate visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LeahBanks1