A CITY couple signalled the start of the festive period in style - as they lit up their house with Christmas decorations all in the name of charity.

It is the second year Dave and Jakki Wood, of Jubilee Road, St John's, Worcester, have adorned their house with lights to raise cash for the neonatal ward at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

Father Christmas rolled up to their home earlier this month from St John's Sport Centre in Swanpool Walk. He rode in on a carriage pulled by miniature ponies to do the honours and flick the switch.

On the day, youngsters were also able to enjoy a bouncy castle and lots of fun and games.

The switch-on ceremony itself made a total of £740 for the cause. The total raised by the couple, including last year's event, has now exceeded £7,000.