A NEW Milton couple have adorned their garden with Easter decorations to raise money for a charity close to their hearts.

Nigel Whitehorn, 60 and his wife Allison, 55, who has Cauda Equina syndrome, have decorated their garden in aid of national charity Spinal Injuries Association, of which Allison is the national coordinator.

The pair decorated their garden last year during the first lockdown but have seen an increase in donations this year.

Nigel said: "We put the decorations up on Sunday, March 7 and in those two weeks we have already raised £70. Last year we raised about £37. We're hoping to raise as much as we can, especially as money for charities is tight at the moment. If we can help just a little bit, then we will.

"We've been adding more decorations over the weeks as we want to spread the cheer for people who come down here. Since last year, Allison has had new ideas and the decorations have progressed.

"She has put a note on the gate saying that the decorations are up to spread a bit of cheer at Easter and if you'd like to put a penny in the pot, you can.

"Everyone puts up Christmas decorations but Easter is different and the children just love it."

The decorations will remain in Nigel and Allison's garden in Brook Avenue North, New Milton until the Tuesday after Easter (April 6).

Local residents are welcome to come and have a look at the decorations and make a donation.