A CHRISTMAS carol sing-along from doorsteps across mid Cheshire could be just the ticket to kick-start the festive season after a difficult year.

That is what Middlewich resident Denise Appleton is hoping for ahead of the Carols in your Garden event next Friday, December 4.

With the Middlewich Christmas lights switch-on going virtual this year due to coronavirus, the 54-year-old came up with the idea of residents switching on their own festive lights at the same time.

The idea was welcomed by fellow Middlewich resident Ruth Sproston, who suggested turning it into a doorstep carol singing event, to bring back some of the community spirit seen in the VE Day celebrations earlier this year.

Denise told the Guardian: "We can't really do anything at the moment – in the summer we could at least wave to neighbours and chat from outside their gardens, but you can't in this weather.

"So this is something to get everyone to join in, something to look forward to.

"People have been really interested in it, care homes have said it would be nice for their residents to take part in.

"A lot of people are going to be having mince pies and mulled wine as well."

Residents have been voting to choose which carols to sing-along to, with Silent Night proving a popular choice, along with Jingle Bells.

Organisers have teamed up with Radio Northwich for the event, with the online station set to play out the festive favourites and take requests.

"I can't sing to save my life," added grandmother-of-two Denise.

"But it is just something nice for everyone to do."

Households wishing to join in the light switch-on can take part at 6pm next Friday, and the event will follow on Radio Northwich.