PENSIONER Mike Constable, 68, of Berry Hill, has set out to make the most arresting garden possible – all in aid of the local Poppy Appeal.

Mike, 68, is throwing open the gates of his 'garden of lights' on Monday October 17 from 7pm.

Visitors can see his wonderful collection of solar-powered garden lamps of all colours, shapes and sizes dotted among an array of artifacts including a giant Union-Jack tea mug.

Entry is free and he will be collecting donations for the appeal of which he is a staunch supporter – the ex-Royal Engineer is a member of the Royal British Legion.

"It will be an amazing sight – I've still got a lot more lights to put in and I'll have a big Union Jack flying too," he said.

Mike suffers from pancreitis and his wife has a brain condition, but he says: "We don't complain about that, just get on with it. We'd be very glad to meet anyone who wants to come along, and it's a bit of fun all in a good cause."

Around 100 bikers have promised a ride-past of 45 Coverham Road on opening night. Mike says he hopes to keep the display going for at least two weeks.