Tony and Wendy Swift’s Nuthall Christmas Lights raise £13,000 for Hayward House ahead of final year

Every Christmas Laurel Crescent in Nuthall shines a little brighter thanks to the incredible Swift family and their spectacular Christmas lights display. Over the past 20 years, this beloved tradition has raised over £259,000 for charity, with an incredible £125,000 supporting our Hayward House Palliative Care Unit.

This year, Tony and Wendy Swift raised £13,000 for Hayward House, and we were honoured to welcome them for a special cheque presentation to celebrate their incredible fundraising efforts. Their dedication to fundraising comes from a personal connection - Tony’s father-in-law was cared for as a day patient at Hayward House 23 years ago, and the family experienced firsthand the warmth and compassion of the hospice staff. Inspired by this, Tony and Wendy decided to use their love of Christmas decorations to give back to the place that meant so much to them.

What started as a small family tradition has grown into a spectacular community event. The display originally lit up their former home but moved with them to Laurel Crescent in Nuthall in 2007, where it has continued to grow each year. Alongside friends and family, the couple spend eight weeks carefully preparing their breathtaking display, which features thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations. Over the years, their displays have welcomed thousands of visitors, donating generously to support local charities.

“We started this as a way to show our appreciation for Hayward House, and it’s been incredible to see how much support we’ve had from the community,” said Tony. “This year is especially meaningful, as we’ve decided that 2025 will be our final display. We want to go out on a high and raise at least £30,000 for our chosen charities.”

Michelle Dorman, Fundraising and Events Relationship Manager at Nottingham Hospitals Charity, praised the Swifts’ commitment: “Tony, Wendy, and their family have created something truly special. Their generosity has helped provide essential care and support for patients and families at Hayward House for more than two decades. 

“We are incredibly grateful for everything they have done and are honoured to celebrate their achievements.”

As the Swifts prepare for their final season in 2025, they invite visitors to be part of this extraordinary tradition one last time. 

Thank you, Tony and Wendy, for lighting up the community and making a difference for so many.