Festive lights burning brightly

André Kotze stretched muscles he never knew he had in preparing his Christmas lights this year.

Together with his faithful gardener, Clement, Mr Kotze has undertaken a complete transformation of his garden ahead of the festive masses who flock to his property year after year.

Before the lights were up, he explained, residents were already keeping an eye out.

“When they saw Clement and me working, the vehicles started circling that night,” he chuckled.

Mr Kotze hoped the removal of a few problem trees in his yard had provided more space for residents to walk about, while providing a better view of the Christmas lights blinking and flashing.

The lights, he continued, were grouped into themes for this festive season.

“We have placed the themed items together, such as the park area, transport and snow.”

The letterbox for children to mail their Christmas wishlists to Santa Claus is set to go up soon, although Mr Kotze is concerned it will be stolen as was the case last year.

However, he is looking forward to eager children making use of the letterbox.

“It’s all about the children and the elderly, because they both enjoy the lights.”

Mr Kotze said about 800 suckers were handed out last year and numerous people came by to admire the lights, including one couple who announced their engagement on the lawn.

“The weather has made it hotter and the lawn drier this year.”

Asked how much fertiliser he used in his garden, Mr Kotze replied about 200 to 300 bags annually, 70 of which were used during the Christmas season.

“I guess I must be the best individual customer for some stores,” he said in jest.