01 Jan May Queen, Santa & Elvis Light-Tastic

The annual “Switch On” of the Downe Village Christmas lights has raised £1,036 for the Freddie Farmer Foundation in Bromley, a charity which provides high quality subsidised therapy support to children and young people with cerebral palsy and their families throughout the South East of England.

Downe Village Christmas lights was started in the early 90s by John Dawson following the loss of his father and with the help of Toby, a local electrician, they managed for several years to provide an annual display relying solely on donations, often finishing up out of pocket.

In later years, Downe Village Club took over the reins to organise fundraising events to raise the necessary funds, with any surplus being donated to local good causes.

“Local businesses, including North End Farm who provided a Cherry Picker to access the trees, and KC Services who provided the electricians, worked tirelessly for two days in terrible weather, without charge, to provide a fantastic lighting display,” said Geoff Dolan, Chair of Downe Village Club.

“Mark from KC Services suggested that a donation of any surplus funds might be made to the Freddie Farmer Foundation, a local charity that is close to his heart, so naturally, we agreed.

“So, it was with great pride and admiration for their endeavours that, on behalf of our Downe Village Club, I was recently able to present a cheque for £1,036 to further the Freddie Farmer Foundation’s great work.

“I know John Dawson and his family will be proud to have instigated what is now a fine village tradition.”

Visit downe-kent.org.uk