Hucknall family switch on dazzling Christmas at Wollaton light show as they mark son's cancer milestone

Jake Barksby, seven, of Tavistock Close pushed the plunger to officially launch Christmas at Wollaton on December 3.

He said: “When I turned around saw the lights I was just amazed with how beautiful they look.”

Sister Hollie 12, who was also by Jake’s side throughout his year-long battle with testicular cancer, said: “I'm really excited that we've been able to do this. After all that he's gone through, it's just absolutely amazing.”

The search to find someone worthy of the occasion saw hundreds of nominations for community heroes all over Nottinghamshire.

Edgewood Primary School pupil Jake was chosen not just for his bravery and perseverance in recovering from illness, but also for the fundraising he and his family have undertaken for local children’s cancer charities.

Mum Nicola said: “To do this as a family it's just been amazing. Today's a very poignant day for us because it marks a year since Jake finished his chemotherapy.

“And so it means a lot to be able to do something like this to mark a year of being in remission as well. So this ceremony is extra special.”

Wollaton Hall & Deer Park has been transformed by a magical installation of lights, fire and sound for families looking for a Covid-safe Christmas experience.

With a discovery trail taking in four distinct ‘lands’, which took more than 500 hours to install the show features 40,000 bulbs over five kilometres of fairy lights, a 70 metre tunnel of 37,000 bulbs, a 90 metre rainbow walk, and a ten metre Christmas tree with 12,000 lights.

Opening until January 6, organiser Kilimanjaro has already had to add more booking slots to meet demand.

One visitor who was there with five young children said: “It was wonderful to feel normal. The whole family really enjoyed it. It was extremely well run. Everyone could socially distance easily.”

The event has been certified as compliant with the latest Government and industry Covid guidelines, with precautions in place to ensure visitors stay safe.

For more information and ticket booking, see www.christmasatwollaton.org.

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