A cul-de-sac in Poole is set to be transformed into a winter wonderland once again this weekend.

For the past 23 years, the residents of Runton Road in Branksome, have been covering their homes and gardens in festive lights and the big annual switch-on will take place at 5.30pm on Saturday.

The spectacle, which has even featured on BBC’s The One Show, has become gradually bigger and better, with more and more neighbours joining in the friendly competition.

What started out as a friendly rivalry between two neighbours competing over Christmas lights has become one of the most spectacular displays in the country.

The dazzling display attracts thousands of visitors from miles around and can be seen from half-a-mile away.

Last year hundreds turned out to see almost 50 homes illuminated with flashing bulbs, singing Santas, giant inflatable snowmen, model reindeer, sleighs and trains.

All the houses involved put out collection tins for various charities and this year residents are collecting for Diverse Abilities Plus Children's Services, Forest Holme Hospice and Julia's House Children's Hospice.

Spectators are asked to park away from the road and walk up to see the lights as Runton Road will be extremely busy.