IT took a week-and-a-half to transform this family home into an illuminated spectacular that is delighting children and raising money for charity.

So far, more than 300 youngsters have visited Santa in his grotto at the home of Brian and Margaret Lauder, at Hall Lane Estate, Willington, County Durham.

The couple have spent £800 this year on Christmas lights to brighten up their home and garden.

Mr Lauder, who dresses as Santa and gives small gifts to youngsters who visit, said: "About three years ago we decided to buy some lights to brighten the estate up and every year it has got bigger and bigger.

"It costs about £10 extra a week for electricity, but we're not bothered because we are having a good time."

This year, the couple will give money from donations and a raffle to the Butterwick Hospice, Bishop Auckland.

They drew a crowd with a party to launch the switch on.

Mr Lauder said: "Everybody in Willington has been absolutely brilliant. Tommy Woodward, from Sunnybrow, provided scaffolding to put the decorations up, and people have been knocking on the door with donations and prizes for the raffle."