Kew is sparkling again after a successful fundraising drive and generous community donations brought Christmas to the village.

Lights were turned on yesterday (Wednesday, December 2), illuminating the village throughout the festive period.

Kew Sparkle – a one-day festive celebration – was not possible this year but the committee led an intensive fundraising campaign which has raised £5,715 in online donations.

"The response has been phenomenal," Maxine Cody of the Kew Sparkle committee said. "The community have really supported the campaign.

"Individuals, local traders and businesses have given so generously. And many of our schools are joining in the fun with children wearing Christmas jumpers with donations going towards the fund."

A fabulous hamper of goodies worth £200 was donated by the Maids of Honour, with raffle tickets available in the shop at just £1 each.

While the pubs have been closed and socialising has been off limits, two virtual community quiz evenings have proved to be extremely popular and provided some fun for the community.

More than 50 teams were fielded across the two events. The second quiz included a Christmas theme with extra prizes for the best Rudolph and team name.

The Kew Society are clearly avid quizzers. In addition to making a generous donation to the funds, the group pledged to match the entrance fees for members.

The Kew Sparkle committee are hugely grateful to the community and are reporting that the targets are nearly met, with just £1,000 more needed to achieve the final goal. You can donate via their website.

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