URGENT UPDATE: Ice-skating legends Torvill and Dean dazzled thousands in Nuthall, Nottingham as they switched on a spectacular Christmas lights display at the Swift family’s home on November 15, 2023. This marks a monumental final year for the couple, who have transformed their property into a breathtaking winter wonderland for over 22 years.
Every year, the Swifts attract up to 30,000 visitors to their semi-detached home, featuring a staggering half a million lights to raise funds for charity. The event drew approximately 6,000 spectators this year, eager to witness the grand illumination and celebrate the Swifts’ incredible fundraising journey.
After raising an impressive £250,000 for Hayward House Hospice and the When You Wish Upon a Star charity, the couple has decided to retire from their beloved holiday tradition. Tony Swift, 66, shared his disbelief at having the Olympic champions join them: “If someone said to me that 22 years ago we’d have Torvill and Dean in our kitchen, I’d think you were barmy,” he said.
“To go out on our last year with Torvill and Dean is amazing. They’re legends and they’re so down to earth,” added Tony.
The Swifts dedicate months to preparing their home, starting in June, to create a festive spectacle that is a cherished tradition for families near and far. “We feel like now is the right time to bow out,” Tony remarked, reflecting on their decision to end the show after reaching their fundraising goal.
This year, the event featured a grotto and an on-site shop offering festive treats, including mince pies and mulled wine, making it a community favorite. Michelle Dorman, a senior community fundraising manager at Nottingham Hospitals Charity, praised the Swifts for their dedication: “We’re so grateful to the Swift family for the fantastic amount of effort they put into organizing the Nuthall Christmas Lights every year.”
The Swifts began this heartwarming tradition in memory of Tony’s father-in-law, who received care at Hayward House before his passing from cancer in 2003. “Someone suggested doing the lights to raise money for Hayward House and it went from there,” Tony explained.
As the event concluded, the Swifts expressed gratitude for the joy and camaraderie built over the years, hoping to leave behind a legacy of community spirit and holiday cheer. The presence of Torvill and Dean added an unforgettable touch to their final display, making it a night to remember.
As the community celebrates this cherished tradition one last time, the Swifts hope to inspire others to give back in their own ways. The lights may dim, but their impact will shine brightly in the hearts of those they’ve touched.
