A row has erupted over a Christmas lights display as residents have complained of traffic, noise and litter in their road.

Saxifrage Way in Worthing has hosted a large festive lights display since 2020, raising money for Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.

But as it is a small cul-de-sac, some neighbours have argued that the display is causing traffic in the road as people from far and wide flock to have a look at the lights.

One resident, who did not wish to be named for fear of reprisals, said: “There is rubbish everywhere and the noise is ridiculous. It has made our lives hell.

“My husband could not get out of our driveway and last year we had our fence broken due to the chaos.”

She said they supported the charity but the display was "just bedlam for the residents".

The Argus: Lights in Saxifrage WayLights in Saxifrage Way

The woman who runs the display, who gave her name only as Sue, disputed the claims, saying: “There is CCTV which shows there has been no traffic disruptions.

“As for litter, there has not been excessive litter at all and if anything there is less as on turn-on night we swept leaves and debris including litter away.”

Sue said that at the end of each evening, when the lights go off, she goes to collect donations and picks up any litter she sees.

This year, the lights are sponsored by Jim Jam’s Bakes and Barista. It operates a transit van nearby selling cakes and hot drinks for visitors.

Sue said: “This year we have had to take on a sponsor because our energy bills have doubled.

“It is costing us at least £8 a day and we fund all the lights ourselves.”

Sue said the van is a small transit van which does not cause traffic disruption. 

Saxifrage Way Christmas Lights has a Facebook page which has over 2,000 followers.

Sue said: "As regards the traffic, we put regular updates on our Facebook to suggest alternative places for people to park so they can make a short walk to the display.

"This has prevented any disruption."