CHRISTMAS may be different this year, however one family is determined to keep their tradition alive.

Jackie and Paul Clifford have been putting on a Christmas display at their home in Chorley Avenue, Saltdean for 20 years.

Every year, they spend weeks arranging penguins, lining up reindeer and perfecting the art of fake snow.

And despite the challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the couple are embracing the festive spirit and switched on their lights on Sunday.

The Argus: Christmas lights in Saltdean.Christmas lights in Saltdean.

While people will not be allowed to gather in their garden to admire the vast winter wonderland, Jackie hopes it will spread some much-needed Christmas cheer.

The 53-year-old said: “The response has been ‘oh thank goodness you’re doing this, it’s nice to have a bit of normality.’

“It’s definitely one of the traditions of Christmas for people in the local area.

“This year more than ever I think it is best and needed to keep things normal, for the children as much as anyone really.”

The couple have also organised an outdoor grotto, so children can still pay a visit to Santa.

The Argus: Christmas lights in Saltdean.Christmas lights in Saltdean.

Jackie said: “On the odd evening, mostly on the weekends, my husband Paul will be Father Christmas and have socially distanced chats with the children.

“But with the uncertainty surrounding Christmas grottos this year, I’m sure the kids will love to see him and it could be their only opportunity to see Santa.”

A few years ago, Jackie and Paul decided to link their yearly efforts in with a good cause and this year have chosen to support Martlets, which provides terminally ill people with care and support.

Jackie said: “Martlets is a great service and a great cause for the community.

“Like all the charities this year they’re struggling to keep going.

“We have a big, red collection bucket in front of the display for people to offer their donations.”

The lights will be switched on between the hours of 4.30pm and 10pm daily and will be up until January 5.