A BARNTON couple are going ‘Christmas crazy’ this year to raise funds for a cause close to both their hearts.

Nicola and Matthew Whitehead go all-out on their decorations every year, but after Matthew bought a Santa’s outfit as a surprise, they decided to turn their Townfield Lane front garden into a festive grotto to support St Luke’s Hospice.

An between 12pm and 4pm on Saturday, December 17, families are welcome to join them for the full 'Christmas' experience, where there will be selfie opportunities with Santa and his elves, candy canes and chocolate treats for the children, and refreshments and mince pies for adults.  

Northwich Guardian: Nicola Whitehead, aka 'Santa's chief helper' (Nicola Whitehead)Nicola Whitehead, aka 'Santa's chief helper' (Nicola Whitehead) (Image: Nicola Whitehead)

Nicola said that Christmas begins for her the moment Halloween is over.

“I love absolutely everything about Christmas," she added. "I love the sense of magic that you get, and the way that the children are just so excited. I love the whole feel of thing.

“We’ve put the gazebo up, and all the inflatables, and we’ve had a sleigh made for inside, and we’ve decorated it all with lights and a real Christmas tree.

“I love the strange (but happy) looks I get from people as they go passed. I tend to wear festive attire too – I’ve got jumpers that make me look like an elf.

“Our own boys think we’re a little crazy sometimes, because we like to go all out.

“I do it early as well. Christmas begins for me at the beginning of November, as soon as Halloween is out the window.”

Northwich Guardian: The Whitehead's family grotto (Nicola Whitehead)The Whitehead's family grotto (Nicola Whitehead) (Image: Nicola Whitehead)

Nicola’s husband Matthew, who is better known as ‘Vern,’ explained why the couple chose to support St Luke’s.  

He said: St Luke’s is close to both our hearts. We’ve each had family members and friends who have been really well looked after by them.

“One in particular, Lesley Davies, who was friends with both of us even before we got together. She died during lockdown, and they really did look after her.

“Nicola has always loved Christmas. Seeing how happy it makes her is all the drive I need to get involved and do everything I can to make it as special as possible.”

Nicola and Matthew recommended a donation of £5 for visitors, or what they can afford. 

You can also donate £3 by texting noel to 70470.