People living on a road filled with “community spirit” in Nottinghamshire have spoken out about their festive street. To spread joy as the cost of living continues to affect many people in the city , Cherhill Close in Clifton is putting a smile on many people’s faces.
When an occasion happens, whether it be Easter or Christmas, the street likes to pull something together. During the Euros, residents had their England flags out and celebrated during the hottest time of the year with a slush machine and food for all.
In 2020, with their masks on and social distancing during a time of uncertainty, Cherhill Close residents celebrated Christmas as one with karaoke, fake snow and dancing. Chris Mullen, who lives on Cherhill Close along with Ryan Beales, Mark Higgins, Ethan Croft and other neighbours, pull together to make the street look as festive as possible.
This year, hundreds have been spent on a light display. Chris explained they haven't done it for the past few years however, this year, it’s back, he said: “We do this for the community spirit, all the kids love it, we have inflatable Santa's and it gets people together.
“The police love it too, they’ll come up and sit in their van. I’ve had people tell me they’ve never seen community spirit like what we’ve got here.” A few years ago, a community-led initiative to create a playing area for children was made which included a £1,200 slide.
However, due to health and safety concerns the play area had to be taken down, the residents said,
Chris described Cherhill Close as “patriotic.” He continued and said: “It costs a fortune but we do it to make the kids especially happy and it’s not just Christmas there’s Easter Egg hunts for the kids, we get together and celebrate football we all do a lot.”
On the street, there are many children from newborns to teenagers. Chris added: “At one time, everyone was having babies so if donations are ever made when we do things on the street, it’s all contributed towards buying nappies, wet wipes, sanitary towels and what people need.”
Natalie Gunn, who has lived in Clifton all her life, is Chris's partner. Natalie said: “It’s a stressful time, with the cost of living and everything else but everyone knows everyone around here and people can go to one another for a drop of milk, this place looks beautiful at night and it’s just nice to get together.”
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