A woman who arranged a final festive event in memory of her late mum has had a change of heart to come back “bigger and better” than ever next year.
Leanne Hill, 43, from Bury, held a community Christmas market and light switch on in Brandlesholme on Saturday, November 30 to honour her mum, Ann Hill, who died in January.
Ann was well known in the area for creating “the most festive house in Bury” on Birks Drive, with visitors coming from all over to see her fantastic light displays.
Leanne hosted the community event, which included market and food stalls and a light switch on, as “final nod” to her mum.
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She did not have any intention of carrying the tradition into next year due to the vast amount of time and effort involved.
However, she said that after being encouraged by attendees to “not give up”, she has decided to come back “bigger and better” having had a change of heart.
Leanne said: “It was a bit heartbreaking as the turnout wasn’t as good as last time and we faced a few issues on the day due to unforeseen circumstances but it is what it is.
“I think I found it all a bit overwhelming to be honest, I’d been comparing it to last year when my mum was still here but it’s a different situation now.”
She estimates that more than 100 people attended on Saturday and provided “encouragement” for her to keep her late mum’s tradition going, including kind words from family friend and former professional boxer, Scott Quigg, who grew up nearby and officially turned on the Christmas lights.
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READ NEXT:All funds raised from this year's event will go to charities Restart the Heart and Bury Hospice and has raised more than £300 so far, with the full total yet to be calculated.
Leanne added: “It’s given me the motivation to try again but it will all be about raising funds for the hospice from now on as they looked after my mum when she was poorly with cancer.
“I’m determined to have the place rocking next year and have already got the ball rolling by speaking to local companies who want to take part."
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