At Christmas, volunteers erect one hundred and forty small trees across the village and two Village trees, one of which is kindly donated by Forest England. The final connection is made by a qualified electrician with appropriate cabling and connections to meet health and safety specifications. A ‘switch on’ is organised to showcase our Village and bring much needed tourism. Funding is achieved by
inviting local businesses to contribute annually for the display, fundraising events, donations, sponsorships and grants. Utilising volunteer labour and regular maintenance, costs are kept under control. However, it still costs a considerable sum to provide an effective display each year in line with latest guidance and legislations. Your donations to sustain this provision yearly are much required and appreciated, to make this easier, a 'Justgiving' page was set up and has now closed. Where we are now? Christmas is almost upon us and you may have noticed work going in the street. Unfortunately in 2019 as the fixings for overhead light strings no longer complied with safety regulations. In 2020 The Committee undertook a viability study to establish if it is possible to reinstate the overhead fixings and strings. Although not to the same extent as in the past. In mid 2021, a company was found to enable this at a cost of £15k for three years, needed by August 31st then kindly extended to September 30th 2021. A challenge which was taken on with gusto by the community. This has now been made possible with the superb efforts and fundraising skills of the local businesses and villagers over just those few months! The direct result. The overhead street lighting has now been secured for the next three years beginning Christmas in Lyndhurst 2021! Your support is not only appreciated, but vital to sustain the future of the village lights each year. A big thank you to all involved, this literally could not have been done without you. Wishing you all a happy Christmas, stay safe. Michael Judd
Chair
Lyndhurst Village Decorations Committee
(updated 29/10/21 re overhead street lighting information)
