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Christmas lights raise £73k for children's charity

BBC Mr Langman is stood in his garden which has been decorated with Christmas lights. Mr Langman is wearing a black and blue striped Guinness shirt. He has short hair and wears glasses. He is stood in front a small tree which has been decorated with fairy lights. A large inflatable Father Christmas decoration has been placed behind Mr Langman.BBC
Mr Langman said he would like to raise more this year than he has previously

A man from Devon has raised more than £70,000 for a children's charity with an annual Christmas light display.

Michael Langman, 83, has illuminated the outside of his home in Churchstow, near Kingsbridge, with thousands of lights to raise money for the Children's Hospice South West.

Mr Langman, who has put on the charitable display for more than 20 years, has raised about £73,000 overall.

"I would like to reach £100,000, I still need a few years yet. I'll hopefully get there," he said.

A sign has been placed outside of the home. The sign, which is illuminated, states 'Children's Hospice South West'. Please give generously to support the children and their family, thank you. This box is emptied frequently.' A number of Christmas decorations can be seen next to the sign including a large nativity scene.
Mr Langman said about 200 people attended to watch the switch on

Mr Langman, who is a grandfather, said he chose to collect for Children's Hospice South West as "Christmas is all about children".

"The hospice nowadays are struggling to get the money in," he said.

"Everybody else is struggling and nobody can afford to donate to them.

"I'd like to get as much as I can this year, more than normal if I can."

He said about 200 people attended to see the display switch on which took place on 1 December.

Mr Langman said the display was "all for the kids".

"I love to see the kids faces when they see it, they pick out their favourite ones.

"It's all about kids at Christmas."

Mr Langman said the display would be up until 6 January.

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