The residents of Deben Avenue, Kesgrave have made a real effort this Christmas by lighting up may of the houses for festive period Mark Davey, Wendy Webb, Jovie, and Jim Tasker, Katie and Colin Webb and Cameron and Julie Davey

IS this the most festive street in town?

Residents in Deben Avenue, Martlesham, have put on a spectacular show for the Christmas season, lighting up the street with a stunning array of decorations.

The festivities kicked off with a big community switch on event – complete with a live band and a visit from Santa.

Julie Davey lives in one of the brightest houses in the street. She said: “We have a Christmas lights switch-on every year.

“Someone launches a rocket and we all switch the lights on.

“Santa comes to visit and gives the children presents and this year a local band came and sang Christmas carols.

“This is the fourth year we’ve done it.

“It started because two of the residents, Rachel Pennick and Michelle Tasker, put a note through everyone’s doors asking if anyone would like to do it.”

Rachel explained: “I just thought it would be nice, if everyone was putting up lights, to do it together. We are a friendly neighbourhood, everyone knows each other and most of the children go to school together.”

This year’s switch-on took place on Saturday, December 9 and everyone came out to join the fun - including grandchildren, friends and relations of those living in Deben Avenue.

Michelle added: “Most people are involved, maybe about half the street have lights up.”

And the reception has been amazing, as Rachel pointed out. “Everyone I speak to says it is fantastic, you just don’t get that community spirit much anymore.”

All the residents gathered in the street for the big switch-on, enjoying mulled wine and mince pies and a chance to chat with their neighbours.

Another neighbour, Libby Spurling added: “It’s done just to bring people together. It started quite small and it’s kind of grown.

“My grandchildren came this year and lots of other people’s grandchildren came.

“This year half the street took part and nobody in the road puts their lights on before the switch on, which is nice.”

Do you and your neighbours illuminate your homes to create a big display? Send us your photos via suffolk.iwitness24.co.uk