The increasing popularity of smaller community Christmas events was on show as a huge crowd turned out for one area's lights switch-on.

There was a record turnout in Sprowston for an annual celebration in Glenburn Avenue, where Matt Smith transforms his home into a winter wonderland.

Norwich Evening News: Record numbers of people attended the event despite heavy rain Record numbers of people attended the event despite heavy rain (Image: Matt Smith)

Matt gets planning early as it takes three weeks to get all the lights in their place.  

He said: “It grows every year. This year I have added a light tunnel and animal features.” 

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The display also features a photo spot at the end of the tunnel where visitors can stop for a selfie.  

Norwich Evening News: Matt Smith adds more to the display every year Matt Smith adds more to the display every year (Image: Matt Smith)

The lights were switched on November 26 and are on daily between 4pm and 9pm until January 2, so there is plenty of time for folk to get a glimpse at Matt's work.

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The event involved lots of the community as there were stallholders and volunteers who ventured out in support.

Matt does it all to raise funds for the East Anglian Air Ambulance, a charity close to his heart for personal reasons so he puts in lots of effort to raise for them.  

Norwich Evening News: The event is made possible by volunteers The event is made possible by volunteers (Image: Matt Smith)

Following the switch-on event he has raise £1,250 but there is a donation box so that visitors who wish to donate can do so.   

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He said: “I would like to thank the volunteers, stallholders, [musicians] Bill Downs, Terry Adams, East Anglian Air Ambulance crews and volunteers for supporting this event, it couldn’t be possible without them.” 

Norwich Evening News: Father Christmas even made an appearance Father Christmas even made an appearance (Image: Matt Smith)

Councillor Bill Couzens said: “Matt did a marvellous job and I'm sure there were more people than last year despite the rain.  

"Also thank you to town council staff who opened the Diamond Centre car park for visitors.” 

Norwich Evening News: The lights will be on daily until January 2 The lights will be on daily until January 2 (Image: Matt Smith)