Every year, husband and wife Pip and Glenys Diebelius go above and beyond with their festive decorations.

They light up their house as well as their neighbour’s house in Glisson Square, Shrub End, Colchester, to raise money for Help for Heroes.

Pip said the idea started in 2008 and has since attracted hundreds of visitors.

He said the number of lights has grown with the popularity of the event.

He said: “We started off really small with about ten lights and have built it up over the years.

“Too many heroes are suffering and it’s wrong. They have done their bit and shouldn’t have to suffer.

“Some are on the streets and that’s awful. I have lived in Colchester all my life so it is time to do my bit for them.”

They raised about £200 across two days for the military charity.

Residents and ward councillors came from across Shrub End to witness the switch-on.

It takes the couple up to four weeks to put the lights up and a weekend to take them down again.

Pip rallies extra support to get the job done as quickly as possible.

He said: “Generally it’s the family who helps put them up. This year my son, Joss, helped me.

“They are mostly LED lights but there are a few thousand of them.

“I ignore the electric cost as it’s a worthwhile cause and brings many a smile.”

Pip said the best part about the event is the joy it brings to others.

He said: “It seeing the children’s and even the adults’ faces.

“Once the snow machines kick in the sheer joy on their faces is amazing.”

He thanked his employer Booker Wholesale for donating mince pies, hot chocolate and mulled wine for the event.

He also thanked CCP Hire for putting the Christmas lights on the roof.

The lights are on for visitors to see between 5pm and 9pm daily.

Ward councillor Lyn Barton said: “It’s yet another example of the community spirit in Shrub End.

“Residents always rise to challenges, we had no defibrillators on the estate and within days residents helped us raise funds to buy one.

“Now Pip and Glenys have put in hours of work to support Help for Heroes.

“The response from the estate was amazing. We all had a lovely evening and I was honoured to be asked to switch on the lights.”