Bishop Auckland Christmas lights display for mental health

Kelly Robinson has decorated her home on Vart Road, Bishop Auckland, with an array of festive lights as her family celebrates their last Christmas in the home. 

Donation buckets outside the house are collecting contributions from visitors with all of the proceeds going towards the charity 'I'm Georges mate' a charity that raises awareness of mental health challenges faced by young adults. 

Kelly chose this charity as it is one of personal significance to herself and the family after her own husband has a history of mental health issues. 

Kelly said: "This has all been so uplifting, seeing all the smiles and amazed faces of people as they come to look or walk past. 

"The support has been amazing, and I love seeing people happy. 

"I have always wanted to help charities as much as I can, and this felt like the perfect way to give back."

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Kelly and her family have always decorated their home for Christmas, but since this is their last one at the house before they move to a bungalow, they wanted to go "out with a bang".

She saw this as an opportunity to make some positive memories in the home they have lived in for years.

She said: "We've had hard times here, but it's nice to go out on a positive note." 

The family home in Bishop Auckland has been decked in Christmas decorations to raise money for the I'm George's Mate charity (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The display has drawn attention from across the local area, with neighbours and visitors praising Kelly's efforts. 

This Saturday, November 23, there will be a visit from Santa where children can have a photo with the big man, as well as get a selection box and some reindeer dust, for a £2 charge.

This will then run every week depending on the interest, which Kelly has said was high. 

The lights will remain on throughout the holiday season from 5pm to 9pm every day, with donations welcomed to support the charity's vital work in mental health support. 

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