A MAN who has decorated his house with festive lights for four years, has put up a record number of decorations this year.

Every year, John Barnes decorates the house he shares with wife Linda and their three children, Carrie, 16, Zoe, 12, and Lee, nine in Belsay Way, Darlington.

Mrs Barnes said: "Last year, our electricity bill came to £80 for the lights alone. But this year John has put a lot more up."

Youngsters from the neighbourhood regularly visit the Barnes' home to admire their display, but it has got a mixed reaction from their own children.

Mrs Barnes said: "The girls are a bit embarrassed, but Lee loves the lights.

"He likes to look out of the window and count how many cars slow down outside the house to look. He's very proud of his dad's efforts."