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Couple Put Up Christmas Lights Two Months Early To 'Cheer People Up' During Pandemic

Couple Put Up Christmas Lights Two Months Early To 'Cheer People Up' During Pandemic

If there's ever a year that this is acceptable, it's 2020

Amelia Ward

Amelia Ward

They say it comes earlier every year, but in my humble opinion, if there's ever a year when it's OK to start Christmas prematurely - it's 2020.

One couple from Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, decided to start the festivities in October to try and cheer up their street.

Ian Cochran, 68, has been putting up his incredible decorations for the last 35 years - usually in December. But this year, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, Ian thought people could do with a little pre-Christmas pick me up.

SWNS

The granddad-of-two got his decs out at the end of September, spending two weeks getting them all in place and attached to the front of the house.

On 1 October, he did the big reveal, turning on his lights for all his street to enjoy. His neighbours - and the kids, who have also had it pretty tough this year - were all delighted.

His display includes an inflatable snowman, a blow up Santa disappearing down a chimney, illuminated Christmas trees and of course - a tonne of fairy lights.

SWNS

Ian said: "We find it very gratifying seeing the reaction to people of all ages enjoying them.

"I thought about it early September knowing many people will be depressed with dark winter nights approaching and possibly no contact with anyone then, and nearer Christmas, with their families.

"It makes us feel happier knowing it's brought some smiles during these troubled times."

His hope is that some local businesses might want to sponsor his vibrant display to help with the running costs.

Ian's proud wife Helen, 68, added: "The lights have been going up for 35 years.

"We started in our last house, and then moved here. People are coming out to look at them.

"Somebody was dancing outside. Ian put them out to cheer people up."

SWNS

At the moment, Ian and Helen's lights are only being switched on at weekends, in the lead up to Christmas.

Helen added: "You should hear the kids screaming.

"One car was pulling up and as they pulled away, another was pulling up.

"It is a bit of cheer."

If you too reckon a bit of Christmas cheer is just what the country needs as we continue our battle with the pandemic, you can also enjoy 24/7 festive films on Sony Movies Christmas. And as if that wasn't enough, radio station Magic 100% Christmas will be playing none-stop Christmas tunes until January.

Let's be honest - it's either going to make you or break you.

Featured Image Credit: SWNS

Topics: Christmas, UK News