Dean's name finally goes up in lights

BRIGHT LIGHTS: Dean Check's winning home on Bamber St. PHOTO/LEWIS GARDNER 121214WCLGLIGHT5

Dean Check has finally cracked the Cleveland's Light Up Your Home competition. After previously placing in the best newcomer and most improved categories, it was third time lucky for the Castlecliff man, who took the top prize this year.

Mr Check started the display at his Bamber St property three years ago as a tribute to his friend's daughter, who had died.

"I love making things and using my hands and that. Most of the stuff that is on the house, I've made," he said. "(I like) some of the things that you can't go into a shop and buy."

He said he tried to build a display that also looked effective during daylight hours.

It took him a couple of weeks to put up. For his efforts he takes away a $500 cash prize and a year's worth of electricity.

Bruce and Colleen Symonds placed second while Revell and Wendy Topless were third.

Meanwhile, the Wanganui Chronicle and More FM best business winner was Central City Pharmacy and Footloose Shoes second while John King and daughter Pamela took out LJ Hooker best new entrant for their Benefield St display.

Their display was a tribute to John's partner, Ngaire Sutherland, who recently passed away. Rochelle Tanner was runner up in that category.

Frances Gupwell's display in Aramoho won the Pak 'n Save people's choice with Sarah Reed and Gregg Adams second.

The MARS Petcare award went to Bulls' Raymond Byrne.

"I would like to pay tribute to all the wonderful Christmas light displays, which bring so much joy to so many people and seem to get better and better from one year to the next," Wanganui Chronicle general manager Andy Jarden said.

He also thanked local businesses, which also included Mitre10 Mega, Liquorland and Video Ezy, for the support the competition had received.

"Without community-minded sponsors like the Clevelands this year, and LJ Hookers, who were the main sponsors for the previous five years, we would struggle to hold this very worthwhile community event."