For those of you living in Betws near Ammanford, you will no doubt, already be familiar with the Christmas lights at Brodawel. We spoke to the man responsible, Justin Power, to find out a bit more about this yearly phenomenon.
When did he start doing it?
The residents started decorating and switching on the lights at the same time in 2015 and then two years ago we decided to decorate for charity.
What made you do it in the first place?
We were originally switching on our lights individually and then we decided to all join in and light up together and make a bit of a do about it. It’s a way of getting everyone together. When people started coming to see the lights it become a very social event.
One of the residents sadly passed away a few years ago so we decided that year to do it for the salvation army charity. The following year we raised over £2,000 for the Jac Lewis foundation and we’ve decided to support the foundation again this year.
How long does it take to put them up?
We start from the beginning of October as there are a lot of houses to do and a lot of lights need to go on roofs, which is quite time consuming.
Does he have any help?
All the residents help if they can, but I take care of putting the lights on the roofs I am in charge of the ladders.
Has the display grown over the years?
Definitely , every year more is added and little changes made.
What’s his favourite display?
I’m not really sure, the displays change every year. It’s hard to choose a favourite they are all magical.
How much is his electricity bill over the winter?
Surprisingly it’s not too bad to be honest, my bill is around about £40.00 higher, but when you consider they are on from November every night through to Christmas I think it’s worth it., lights are more cost effective these days.
Does he have an idea of how many bulbs are in the display?
About 80,000!
How can people donate?
There are several ways to donate. You can donate through the Jac Lewis Foundation page on the JustGiving website, by scanning the QR code displayed on posters on Brodawel and if Santa comes, we do have a collection bucket!