It was a much smaller affair than usual for the annual switching on of Terry Ramplin’s Christmas Lights display at Long Lane in Newport last night (Saturday).
Despite plans to wind things down after last year’s 20th display celebrations, Terry and his wife Sue have once again gone all out to decorate their house with festive lights to bring joy to the thousands of Islanders who visit each December.
This year’s pandemic meant there was no marching band, hot sausage rolls or large crowds for the big switch on, which was kept quiet and pushed back from its usual week. Instead, Island Echo live streamed the moment Terry’s granddaughters Evie and Rose pressed the plunger to illuminate the display.
For 2020, the Ramplins are raising money for Monkey Haven and Care in the Garden – 2 worthy local charities who are hoping to benefit greatly from the generosity of Islanders who visit Long Lane each year, in a year when donations are needed the most.
The lights are on every night between now and New Year with families welcome onto the driveway as normal to enjoy the plethora of lights – and of course the snow machine!
Once again, Long Lane is this year’s Star Display in Light up the Wight – the official guide to the best Christmas lights across the Isle of Wight, brought to you by Island Echo and Southern Vectis.
You can download the map to discover some truly magical displays, as well as voting for your favourite, at www.islandecho.co.uk/xmas.
What very kind people. Let’s hope life is good to them all.
A jolly fine example to one and all. Bravo that chap.
Wow always enjoyed passing and donate for many years. Took many pictures and shared with my multiple asian crew members on ship which have aspired them to do same back home. No car this year but weather permitting will cycle there. X