Upset as safety issues end Burton-upon-Trent charity lights display

Thousands of lights were hung across lamp-posts and homes on the cul-de-sac

A charity has paid tribute to a group of neighbours who have been raising funds through their Christmas lights display, despite them being forced to end it early due to parking issues.

The lights on Lansdowne Road, in Branston, Burton-upon-Trent, have drawn large crowds, encouraging donations to local charity Burton Hope.

But the residents said they had had bad experiences with some visitors.

"It's very upsetting," John Anderson, from Burton Hope, said.

"For them to switch off a week before Christmas is just very sad, extremely sad."

Thousands of lights were used in the display, strung between and across homes and lamp-posts, and residents on the cul-de-sac dressed up each night to greet visitors.

The lights were turned off after Sunday evening due to safety concerns, organisers said

The event has taken place annually for several years, but over the weekend the community published several posts on Facebook urging drivers to park considerately and use a nearby car park.

Motorists were "dumping" cars, blocking drives and being abusive, they added in one post.

Then on Sunday evening, they posted that "with great sadness" the lights would not be turned on from Monday.

"Christmas is a time for cheer and unfortunately the positivity we have built has become negative," they added.

This year's display was raising money for Burton Hope, which supports struggling families and people in the area.

Mr Anderson, the charity's chairman, said he could understand residents in the area getting upset over inconsiderate parking.

"The residents are people who work all day, they do this in the evening, they give up their time to do this for the benefits of others which is lovely, but they are very busy people," he said.

"For them to have problems is just not acceptable."

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