THE annual charity Christmas lights display at a Stow Hill house in Newport won’t be taking place this year after the organiser had a stroke.

Sheila Gill raised thousands of pounds for several charities over the past few years by covering every last inch of her house in festive decorations and hosting a switch-on party.

However, the display won’t be happening this year after Ms Gill had a stroke at the end of January this year while taking the Christmas decorations down.

Ms Gill said: “I am not walking yet, but I am alright. I am getting better.”

The Stow Hill resident will nevertheless be holding a raffle to raise funds for the stroke ward at the St Woolos Hospital.

She is also collecting toys to send to an orphanage in Lithuania – and has already collected 3,000 teddies.

To buy raffle tickets or to donate toys, visit her house in 224 Stow Hill, by the chemist.

“If I feel better, I would like to do it next year,” Ms Gill said. “I am really missing it this year.”

To keep posted on Ms Gill’s fundraising efforts, visit facebook.com/ChristmasLightsNewport