PUTTING UP your Christmas lights is a sure sign you're ready to get into the festive spirit, and driving around to see everyone else's work is something that can be enjoyed even with social distancing.

One group of neighbours on Hillary Rise in Barry have taken their decorations to the next level.

Four houses located at the bottom of Hillary Rise have worked together to produce scenes from Santa's workshop: the presents being packaged, loaded onto the sleigh and getting the reindeer ready for take-off.

Lindzi and Dave Myers usually add onto neighbour Rob's display, but this year along with Rob and Fran, and next-door neighbour Sadie, they have all collaborated for the first time.

"Rob works for a theatre production company, and makes a fantastic scene each year," said Lindzi.

"There's great neighbours down here and our part is only stage one.

"Our four houses are recessed back off the road and have driveways, so we have the space to make something. The chapel next door has put a nativity scene up too.

"Rob's scene is Santa's workshop so my husband decided to build a sleigh to fall in line with that. We just wanted to create something for people to come and see.

"When our kids were younger, we used to drive round to see everyone's lights, and rate them and compare them. It was something to pick up the spirits for the kids.

"If we can contribute to that for someone else, and create feelings of well-being then that's great," she said.

The neighbours have lent each other ladders, lights and storage space in order to produce the fantastic displays.

"Working out there, we're in isolation but we can shout to each other, take out cups of tea, or even beer.

"Our grandchildren are absolutely in love with it. Particularly this year, with Barry Round Table opting for the float rather than the sleigh, this is a nice place to see a Santa sleigh.

Lindzi estimated that there are eight sets of long lights covering their drive, as well as a sleigh, and a mesh bow created by her daughter.

In total, it took four days to complete, but Rob finished later, on Friday.

"He's been out until 1am, it must be freezing!" said Lindzi.

Even though a display like this is costly to run, Lindzi and Dave are happy to give back to their community.

"It's just something you do at Christmas," said Lindzi.

"It's just once a year, and we haven't got ay young children anymore so we wanted to give back from when we looked at other people's lights.

"My husband says he must improve upon it for next year. It'll be like the film Deck the Halls!" she said.