It’s been a mini version of Walsall Illuminations for six years and signalled the start of Christmas for its neighbours.

But now a Black Country family’s charity annual lights extravaganza has fallen on hard times.

Spectacular bulbs and festive displays that usually adorn Mick and Sue Jukes’ semi in Walstead Road West will be drastically scaled down next year as they cannot afford to continue the event in its current form. The couple are calling on people to visit their home this year while the lights are still at their finest.

Families have come from across the region to view the winterland over the last six years, raising thousands for Walsall-based charity Golden Wishes, which helps children with mobility problems. The couple deck their front and back garden and front lounge in lights, featuring displays of Father Christmas, reindeers and the nativity.

Housewife Mrs Jukes, aged 52, said today: “The cost of keeping the lights on has gone up considerably in the last 12 months.

“Last year it cost £300 which was covered by proceeds from a tombola we held to offset it. This year we will have to do the same thing. It’s really a combination of things which has brought us to this decision.

“I’ve not been very well at all this year and we weren’t sure if we would even set up the displays this time round. It’s all being done at the last minute. We’ve decided this will be the last big display that we’ll put on.”

New attractions at the home, opposite Joseph Leckie Community Technology College, include reindeer lights, a swaying Santa and a polar bear.

Last year the donations from visitors to the premises at 47 Walstead Road West totalled £700.

The couple’s son, Marvin, aged 32, has already set this year’s effort rolling by attracting £200 in sponsorship by competing in the Wolverhampton Half Marathon, the Great Midland Fun Run and the Birmingham Half Marathon all held earlier this year.

The lights are on from 4.30 to 9pm daily until Christmas Eve. Father Christmas will be in residence from December 12.