In a spectacular farewell to a beloved two-decade tradition, Olympic ice-skating champions Torvill and Dean switched on the final Christmas lights display at a family home in Nuthall, Nottinghamshire, drawing thousands of spectators.
A Dazzling Finale After 22 Years
Tony and Wendy Swift have spent the last 22 years transforming their semi-detached property on Laurel Crescent into a winter wonderland featuring an incredible half a million lights. What began as a heartfelt endeavour to raise money for charity culminated this year in their most memorable switch-on yet.
The couple, who have decided to retire the display after raising an impressive £250,000, were left astounded when the Olympic gold medallists agreed to perform the honours for the final time on Sunday, November 15th. Around 6,000 people flocked to the residential street to witness the legendary duo illuminate the property.
"If someone said to me that 22 years ago we'd have Torvill and Dean in our kitchen, I'd think you were barmy," said Tony Swift, 66. "Just remember it's a semi-detached property so to have Torvill and Dean, who are Nottingham's most famous people, is amazing. We feel very honoured."
The Heart Behind the Lights
The Swifts' incredible fundraising journey began after a personal loss. Tony explained, "We lost my father-in-law to cancer in 2003 and he used to go to Hayward House and what they did there was brilliant." A suggestion to raise money for the hospice through Christmas lights sparked a tradition that would see up to 30,000 visitors annually.
Over the years, the display grew to include a grotto and an on-site shop selling mince pies, mulled wine, and festive gifts. Tony and his 33-year-old son Adam would begin assembling the £9,000 worth of decorations as early as June.
The funds raised have supported Hayward House Hospice in Nottingham and the When You Wish Upon a Star charity. Michelle Dorman, senior community fundraising manager at Nottingham Hospitals Charity, expressed profound gratitude for the family's efforts, which have funded complementary therapy, counselling, and art activities for patients with terminal illnesses.
A Magical Send-Off with Local Legends
The connection to Torvill and Dean came about through Barbara White, founder of the When You Wish Upon a Star charity, who discovered the skating icons followed the Swifts on social media. After she reached out, they "jumped at" the opportunity.
"The night was magical," Tony recalled. "They both took the time and effort to see us. They sat down and had a cup of tea with us... They stayed a lot longer than we expected and had pictures with people."
With their fundraising goal met and the display consuming a significant amount of their time, the Swifts feel it is the right moment to bow out. Tony stated, "We think that £250,000 is a good amount... We feel like now is the right time to bow out." Their final year, lit by local legends, provided the perfect, unforgettable conclusion to a community institution.
