A GRANDAD who transformed his Winsford garden into a magical winter wonderland has raised a phenomenal £1,700 for St Luke's Hospice.

David Robinson has been creating a magnificent festive display outside his home on Station Road for more than 30 years.

The 70-year-old has now raised more than £12,000 for various charities.

Visitors travel for miles to see his stunning Christmas characters.

Creating the giant spectacle is a painstaking labour of love.

David and his brother-in-law Melvyn Hulse devote weeks to checking thousands of bulbs and all the wiring before they are able to set up the intricate lights.

His daughter Stephanie, 40, spends months writing to businesses to appeal for donations for a tombola and raffle.

This year she was delighted to more than 50 gifts through the generosity of local firms and KJW Landscapes who donated a pair of Manchester United tickets to raffle.

Stephanie said: "The switch on night brought the locals out in vast numbers and we can't thank them enough. We raised more than £400 on a tombola and raffle.

"My dad and uncle spend several days in the cold organising the lights.

"We are very proud of the people, some of whom travel quite a way to see them and donate."

Last year's event raised £1,600 for the hospice.

Rachel Hughes, hospice community partnerships fundraiser, said: "Huge thanks once again to Mr and Mrs Robinson for raising funds for our hospice.

"Over the years they have provided continued support for St Luke's Hospice and we are extremely grateful for their generosity.

"This year they raised a brilliant amount of £1,721.11. David continues to receive immense support from the local community and local businesses in our area. We appreciate all of his efforts towards supporting patient care here at St Luke's."

Dad-of-two David started decorating his garden when his children were young.

His daughter Stephanie and son Craig, 38, now enjoy the display with his wife Pat and four grandchildren.

"It's a lot of hard work but we enjoy it," said David. "I added a lot of different things this year and a new snowman.

"I set up a projector in an upstairs bedroom with a hologram of Santa who walks around and waves. Children really enjoy it and think that Father Christmas lives in my house!"