FATHER Christmas will have no excuse for missing one cul-de-sac in Rishton this year after residents lit up their street with a sea of twinkling lights.

Residents in Bridge Street have become well-known locally for their flamboyant approach to the festive season but Christmas 2004 is set to be even bigger and brighter.

For the past five years, they have been adding to their collection of lights and novelty items and more and more people have been making a special journey with their children to look at the display.

This year they are hoping that people who come and look at their houses will give generously to the East Lancashire Hospice in Blackburn.

Among the decorations are several 6ft inflatable snowmen and a Father Christmas, illuminated reindeer, fake snow and hundreds of fairy lights.

Charlotte Roper, 11, who lives on the street, said: "All our friends are talking about it at school and it's really fun."

Neighbour Daniel Smith, 11, said: "I look forward to it each year. Every time it gets bigger."

Resident Jean Kendall, who spoke on behalf of her neighbours, said: "It started about four or five years ago and more people joined in over the years and it's just got bigger and bigger."

Harry Grayson, from East Lancashire Hospice, said: "Everyone should bring their children along and donate for charity."